Potsdamer Platz

Overview

Potsdamer Platz was Europe's busiest intersection in the 1920s, a Cold War no-man's-land, and after 1990 the largest construction site on the continent. Today it showcases 1990s star-architect urbanism by Renzo Piano, Richard Rogers, and Helmut Jahn.

Highlights

• Sony Center: Helmut Jahn's spectacular tent-roof atrium housing cinemas, restaurants, and a film museum.
• Daimler Quarter: Renzo Piano's brick-and-terracotta buildings with a sculpture garden by Keith Haring and Jeff Koons.
• Berlin Film Festival: The Berlinale palace and red carpet are headquartered here each February.

History

Once home to Europe's first traffic light (1924) and thriving pre-war nightlife, the square was obliterated in WWII and then bisected by the Wall. After 1990, a massive redevelopment created the current complex.

Visitor Tips

• Film museum: The Deutsche Kinemathek (Museum for Film and Television) is excellent.
• Panoramapunkt: Take the elevator to the top of the Kollhoff Tower for views.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.