The Rotes Rathaus (Red City Hall) is one of Berlin's most iconic landmarks, and the official seat of the mayor and the Berlin state government (Senate). Its name is not due to a political leaning, but rather to the vibrant color of the red clinker bricks that make up its facade.
History and architecture:
- Construction: It was built between 1861 and 1869 in the Italian Renaissance style by the architect Hermann Friedrich Waesemann.
- The Tower: The central tower is 74 meters high and was inspired by the towers of French cathedrals (such as the Laon Cathedral).
- The "Stone Frieze": On the facade, at the level of the first floor, there is a terracotta frieze called "Chronicle of Berlin". It depicts scenes from the city's history and the development of its economy and science up to 1871.
- Damage and reconstruction: the building was severely damaged during World War II and rebuilt in the 1950s. During the division of Germany, it served as the East Berlin city hall.
Public access is permitted in certain areas, and the interior is as impressive as the exterior:
- Entrance Hall: a monumental space with elegant columns and staircases.
- Wappen-Saal (Hall of Coats of Arms): where the coats of arms of all Berlin districts are displayed. It is used for receptions and state visits.
- Säulensaal (Hall of Columns): formerly the library, today it is one of the most beautiful halls, with a nine-meter-high ceiling and busts of famous Berliners. It is frequently used for exhibitions.
- Mayors' Corridors: portrait gallery of the mayors who governed Berlin over the decades.
Opening
Open Monday to Friday, generally from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Saturdays and Sundays open only for special events.
Attention: as it is a functioning government building, access may be restricted without prior notice for security reasons or state visits.
Tickets
Free entry
Address
Rathausstr. 15
S3/S5/S7 Alexanderplatz Station
U5 Rotes Rathaus Station
