Paul Löbe Haus During your visit planning to Berlin, Germany, it is common that you come across a remarkable building. But what exactly is it and why is recommended for a visit? In this article, we will look at the history, features and function of Paul Löbe Haus and give you all the necessary information in order not to leave you in doubts.
History of Paul Löbe Haus
Paul Löbe Haus, the modern structure named for a German political figure, is a government structure in central Berlin. This is the site of the Germany Parliament referred to as the Bundestag. Paul Löbe Haus construction started in 1997 and was accomplished in 2001.
The building was designed by Stephan Braunfels who is a well known architect whose goal was to construct a building that would incorporate the idea of openness, access for all and the democracy. An especially important feature that distinguishes Paul Löbe Haus is a glass front or the ‘transparency’ of the German government. In correspondence with this concept, the building was located right across the River Spree and the former east side of the Reichstag building which symbolized German history.
Architecture and Design
However, the building face that is Paul Löbe Haus exhibits a beautiful mix between the contemporary and the classical style. The glass cladding is symbolic of openness and the clients and visitors can enjoy great panoramic views of major landmarks in Berlin. The mixture of historical and modern design also allow to understand the efforts Germany has made to accept its history and to look ahead to a more progressive future.
Surrounding the Paul Löbe Haus, the interior is very bright and there is an attractive large foyer in the building. Sustainability features are also evident in the design; for instance, an energy system that uses heat from the adjacent power station to warm the building in winter.
Among them, it is worth highlighting a relatively unique project of a chamber for parliamentary session, which has a curved shape to encourage interlocution between executives. The chamber is enclosed by more open public viewing galleries through which the public can observe the workings of parliment as they deliberate.
Visiting Paul Löbe Haus
Guided Tours:
Additional information and specially guided tours can be helpful in order to understand how important is Paul Löbe Haus. These tours afford the clients a historical background on the building, the architecture, and the working of the German Parliament. These are Services that are also available in different languages such as English and to participate in any of them it is advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointments.
Witnessing Parliamentary Debates:
If you want to observe parliament, people can sit in the three galleries standing around the chamber. Nevertheless, we should discuss it taking into consideration the fact that debates can be missed on some days at some time.
Exhibition Area:
Paul Löbe Haus is said to have an exhibit area that provides information to the public on Germany’s history, focus on democracy and the parliaments. It appears that the exhibits give the necessary históric and political information about the country and the importance of the Bundestag.
Visitors’ Center and Roof Terrace:
There you may also get some extra information and pick up an audio guide or launch one of the interactive installations on the spot at the Visitors’ Centre. On the roof level, you can get splendid views of Berlin skyline or Reichstag building in particular if you face North.
Conclusion
Paul Löbe Haus is not only a government building; it stands for the Germany’s democracy and openness. The facade of the building is a combination of historic and contemporary design, so the potential guests will have quite an unusual experience. Regardless of the fact that one is passionate about the political history of Germany or enjoys the presence of great architecture, Paul Löbe Haus deserves a visit. Get a chance to learn about the evolution of Democracy in Germany and how the German Parliament works.
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