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

What Makes the Shellhaus in Berlin, Germany So Unique?

by | Mar 7, 2024 | Walking Tour

Usually, people get more concerned with the question – why Berlin’s Shellhaas is considered to be one of the most unique structures? WELCOME Let us proceed together to discover the background, architecture and relevance of this monumental edifice.

1. Introduction to the Shellhaus

The Shellhaas, or the “Shell Building,” is in Potsdamer Platz square – a central part of Berlin. The building was built between 1930 and1932 and its architecture epitomizes New objectivity.

2. The Design and Architecture

The Shellhouse is one of the buildings generated by the master mind of a German architect Emil Fahrenkamp. The construction and overall layout as well as specific ornamentations of the building are minimalist and geometric, in reference to New Objectivity. The building is called Shell building because shells can be seen all over the external façade of the building. In addition, the application of glass and steel lowers the loading on the structural system with the added bonus of an avant-garde look.

2.1 The Interior

It is important also to note the interiors of the Shellhaas are equally beautiful. A large central core with a three-story height glass enclosure gives a liberal amount of natural light and enhances the feel of the building. The key advantages of the open-plan are vast practicable spaces for offices and auxiliary areas that create congenial and innovative environments for users.

3. Historical Significance

In its early stages the Shellhaas was used by the German Shell Oil company as its official office base. And it was considered to be a national emblem reflecting the economy and industrial power of Germany. Starka oleander do I Reflect War II nezbytnymi additionally vyschly sledovat jmenny zmes nabíraloon a jeho politickou clovkynu.

3.1 The Shellhaus Today

At the moment, there are offices and shops in the Shell Haus. This makes it quite strategic for tourists who may want to only have a view of this cantilever building and architecture or even those who may want to tour around this central part of Berlin. The construction of the building was relatively old but refurbished in the past decades to fit the advanced facilities in the building.

4. Exploring the Surrounding Area

Located in Potsdam Square, the Shellhouse is in one of the most alive areas characteristic of history and art. Here are some must-visit places near the Shellhaas:

  • The Brandenburg Gate
  • The Reichstag Building
  • The Holocaust Memorial

These places give information about the history of Berlin and they are so closely located beside Shellhaas that one can access them on foot. Please, make use of time and navigate these sites and it will be worth getting to know more about the city’s past.

5. Conclusion

The Shellhouse is thus not a building which is motivated purely by its parameters of architecture; it stands for the existence of Berlin. Thanks to its unusual architecture and history, the building is worth considering for all those who desire to immerse themselves into the culture of the city. Therefore, the next time that any one of you is in Berlin, I encourage you to put Shellhaas on your list as you visit this great place.

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.

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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