Buckau: a neighborhood in transition

German

Buckau is a neighborhood in the south of Magdeburg that has undergone significant change in recent years. Once characterized by industry, shipyards, and workers’ housing, Buckau is now undergoing a transformation into a creative, lively, and increasingly sought-after neighborhood. Old industrial sites have been converted into cultural and residential spaces, and new cafes, studios, and social projects are attracting people from a diverse range of backgrounds. At the same time, Buckau remains a socially diverse neighborhood where many people with low incomes also live.

It is precisely this contrast that makes Buckau particularly interesting for our project: here, historical structures, creative developments, and social challenges come together in a small space. Making free and low-cost services visible is particularly important in a district like Buckau, as it enables participation for all population groups and makes local resources accessible.

Historically, Buckau is one of the oldest districts in Magdeburg. Mentioned as early as the Middle Ages, the district evolved into a significant industrial center in the 19th century, particularly through advancements in mechanical engineering and shipbuilding along the Elbe River. Following the decline of industry during the GDR era and the upheavals that occurred after reunification, Buckau temporarily lost its significance. Today, it is experiencing a cultural and social revival that presents both opportunities and challenges.

Public places with playgrounds, parks and green spaces

Playground

Bernburger Str. 3, 39104 Magdeburg

Basketball court, playground, small green space

Dorotheenstraße 7, 39104 Magdeburg

Knochenpark with a soccer field, a basketball court, playground and a green space

Karl-Schmidt-Straße, 39104 Magdeburg

Klosterbergegarten, with a playground

Schönebecker Str. 129, 39104 Magdeburg

Parc Green Middle Labyrinth

Karl-Schmidt-Str. (ca. 13). 39104, Magdeburg

Thiemplatz, with seating, trees, and water feature, central place in Buckau

Thiemstraße 20, 39104 Magdeburg

Open Space in der Thiemannstraße: a small square with a bench and an open bookshelf

address

Cultural, social or spiritual places

Werk 4

Project to revitalize the site of the former VEB oxygen and acetylene plant in Magdeburg-Buckau. Brauereistraße 4, 39104 Magdeburg

5 Elemente e.V.

Association for the promotion of culture, art, youth, sports, education, and open child and youth work. With projects and courses. Is it in Buckau?

 Q. Hof Kunstverein e.V.

A collective of five studios in Werk 4 that organize free exhibitions and paid courses (expensive). Address

Gruson-Greenhouses

Schönebecker Str. 129b, 39104 Magdeburg

Reflection

Buckau is a district transforming, evolving from a former industrial and working-class neighborhood into a creative and vibrant quarter. Social diversity remains high: alongside new, innovative milieus, many people with low incomes live in the district, making Buckau particularly sensitive to gentrification processes. The wide range of free and inexpensive cultural offerings—such as the HOT Alte Bude youth center, Werk 4, Gruson greenhouses, Gesellschaftshaus, puppet theater, Volksbad Buckau public baths, Literaturhaus, open spaces, and exchange shelves—enables low-threshold participation for all age groups and social classes. These offerings are central to social work, as they promote social integration, equal opportunities, and education. Effective networking, for example, through the Buckau Verein and the visibility of its offerings, ensures that young people from other districts also choose Buckau as a destination for leisure activities. Social work can build on these structures but must remain vigilant to ensure that rising rents and gentrification do not exclude disadvantaged groups from access. Maintaining and expanding free and affordable services is, therefore, a key task in ensuring participation and social justice in the district. Gentrification carries the risk of services becoming more expensive or being displaced, which is why social work must continue to advocate for disadvantaged groups.