Free Walking Tour Berlin

When: Every day 10am & 12pm every day
Where: The meeting point is in front of the ehemaliges Kaiserliches Postfuhramt Berlin, Oranienburger Straße, 10117 Berlin, Germany, next to the entrance.
Price: Free

Welcome to Haus des Lehrers: Discover the Architectural Gem in Berlin

by | Oct 22, 2024 | Original Berlin

Introduction

If you are travelling to Berlin in Germany you might have heard about the Alexanderplatz which is one of the most famous public square in the city. and among many buildings at the close distance to this square is the outstanding Haus des Lehrers, an example of architecture of the twentieth century. In this blog post, we will look at the background and architectural features of Haus des Lehrers and the importance of this building.

The history of the company – Haus des Lehrers

Constructed between 1962 and 1964 the building that literally means ‘House of the Teacher’ was one of the few buildings to be constructed in the Lehrter Strasse during the East Berlin redevelopment period of GDR. The building was planned to be used as a hall for meetings, as a place for cultural events and as working premises for teachers.

This was designed by Hermann Henselmann, a famous GDR architect, and was one of the major features of the newly revitalised Alexanderplatz area. Henselmann strived to design an edifice that would strike a representation of the part played by education in the socialist society of the GDR.

The Design and Architecture

A good Net example of socialist modernism was the Haus des Lehrers; monumental, restrained by the lines in functionalist style. The building reaches the total height of 125 meters (410 feet, approximately) so during its construction, it was one of the tallest buildings in the area.

Haus des Lehrers is particularly notable because of the exterior of the building. A façade of numerous concrete precast panels is fixed vertically one below the other in such a manner as to form a ripple pattern all over the perimeter of the building. This kind of design element creates impression of movement, which is aimed to express dynamics and innovative character of education in the GDR.

Inside the building there are large central and specialized areas such as main hall, learning clusters, conference and lecture halls and auditorium all facilitating the sharing of ideas. Another factor which also contributes to general concept of the building as well as its practicality is the liberal usage of natural light, extensive windows, and versatile internal layout.

The Significance of Haus Des Lehrers

Haus des Lehrers was the key in political and cultural life of East Berlin in GDR period. For people it was not only a building, but a symbol of socialism, and educated, progressive people.

Due to its multifunctionalisation shall Haus des Lehrers also be seen as a centre of cultural and conference activity of the GDR which house was filled with conferences, exhibitions and cultural soirées in line with the principles of the society. It was a means to disseminate ideas and opinion and an important venue for the social sciences.

Moreover, that rounded black monster played a part in defining the exterior layout of the city. Of course, Haus des Lehrers has been an embodiment of the GDR architectural emblem and dreams. It served as an enduring part of East Berlin and therefore made it a great cultural asset.

When you visit Haus des Lehrers today

Even after the Germany’s reunification and transformation of political situation Haus des Lehrers can still be recognized as ideal example of architectural work. At the present time, it is used for various offices and institutions; nevertheless, some sections of it are open for visitors.

The restaurant is open to the public, and the ground floor can be visited while awe- inspiring elements of structure design can be observed. Also, just a stones throw away is Alexanderplatz which also presents a lively shopping district consisting of shops, restaurants and good transport links, which also makes it a good location to start of a tour of Berlin.

So if you have a taste for architecture and history, or if you just like to discover Berlin from its historical aspect, then I recommend you to visit Haus des Lehrers. By doing this, you will leave the tour with even a better understanding of the GDR period, the importance of put up modernist architectures and the dynamic existence of the city.

Conclusion

Haus des Lehrers demonstrates the outstanding architecture of the GDR period and bear evidence that design determines our lives. Despite its small size compared to some of the other attractions in Berlin it is impossible to overlook its effective design, its unerring sense of grandeur history is its strong selling point. Regardless of whether you are fanatic of architecture or just want to discover the historical sights of the city – a vistit to the Haus des Lehrers is really breathtaking.

Thank you for reading. If you're inspired by the stories of Berlin and want to delve deeper, why not join us on our Free Berlin Walking Tour? It's a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the city's rich history and vibrant culture. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

WHAT TO EXPECT

  • 3.5 hours walking tour
  • Berlin’s major highlights
  • Brandenburg Gate
  • Reichstag and Berlin Wall
  • Historical sites

Free Walking Tour Berlin

When: Every day 10am & 12pm every day
Where: The meeting point is in front of the ehemaliges Kaiserliches Postfuhramt Berlin, Oranienburger Straße, 10117 Berlin, Germany, next to the entrance.
Price: Free