This year, the Christmas tree in front of the Rhineland-Palatinate State Representation in the Ministerial Gardens in Berlin comes from the Westerwald. More precisely, from the Christmas village of Waldbreitbach in the Wiedtal valley. The 15 m high Nordmann fir comes from Gertrud Hohn's garden. The tree had to go because it was too close to the house at the size it had reached. The owner contacted the State Chancellery of Rhineland-Palatinate in spring via former Member of Parliament Sabine Bätzing-Lichtenthäler, who also comes from the Westerwald. After inspecting the fir tree, the decision was quickly made. With some preparation, it was carefully felled, loaded and transported to Berlin. The THW Neuwied and THW Frankenthal were responsible for the smooth operation in cooperation with the Waldbreitbach fire department on behalf of the State Chancellery. For all those involved, such operations are important exercises for people and equipment in order to be prepared for emergencies. In the meantime, the Christmas tree has arrived safely in the capital and stands decorated and illuminated in front of the state representation, about 500 meters from the Brandenburg Gate. Incidentally, Rhineland-Palatinate is the most densely wooded federal state in Germany in relation to its total area, with over 40% forest cover. And the Waldbreitbach Christmas Village is open daily until January 28, 2024. There are over 70 stations to admire along the crib trail.
