Red Town Hall

Red Town Hall

The Red Town Hall is actually the Berlin City Hall. Its nickname “Red Town Hall” comes from the building material—red bricks—and its striking and prominent façade has made it one of Berlin’s landmarks. Built between 1861 and 1869 based on the design of Hermann Waesemann, the building has a history of over 140 years. This Italian Neo-Renaissance style structure features three courtyards, numerous round arches, and an impressive 74-meter-high central clock tower.

During World War II, the Berlin City Hall suffered severe damage but was quickly rebuilt after the war. During the period when Berlin was divided into East and West, this building and the surrounding Alexanderplatz were located in East Berlin. The East Berlin government had its offices here, while the West Berlin government operated from the Schöneberg Town Hall. Since 1991, the Red Town Hall has once again been the seat of the unified Berlin government, and the mayor’s office is naturally located there.

There are several rooms in the town hall worth visiting: the Coat of Arms Hall displays the coats of arms of Berlin and each of its districts, and is used to receive important guests; the Grand Banquet Hall hosts various celebrations, such as receptions and ceremonies; and the most beautiful is the 9-meter-high Columned Hall, featuring a domed ceiling in orange hues and numerous classical busts. Originally the town hall library, the Columned Hall now frequently hosts exhibitions. The third-floor corridor displays portraits of all individuals who have been awarded the title of Honorary Citizen of Berlin, painted by Rolf Dübner.

Rotes Rathaus

Must-visit reason: One of Berlin’s most eye-catching landmarks

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/region where the attraction is located: Germany[Germany]

Province/state where the attraction is located: Berlin State [Berlin]

City where the attraction is located: Berlin [Berlin]