“Ever upward” could be the motto for the Aussichtsterrasse. Here we are at one of Leipzig’s most iconic viewpoints offering stunning panoramic views. But this isn’t just any viewpoint. It’s perched atop the City-Hochhaus Leipzig.
The City-Hochhaus Leipzig has several nicknames. Locals call it “Weisheitszahn” meaning wisdom tooth. Others call it “Uniriese” meaning university giant.
Let’s delve into its history. The City-Hochhaus was built between 1968 and 1972. It was designed by architect Hermann Henselmann. Henselmann envisioned prominent towers capping central city locations. He also designed the Jen-Tower in Jena and the Fernsehturm in Berlin.
Originally the City-Hochhaus was part of Leipzig University. The state government of Saxony later sold it. The U.S. investment bank Merrill Lynch now owns it.
Between 1999 and 2002 the building underwent extensive renovations. The aluminum sheathing was replaced with grey granite. Today private tenants occupy the offices. These include the public broadcaster MDR and the European Energy Exchange.
Ready to ascend to the Aussichtsterrasse? A staircase from the Panorama restaurant leads to the open viewing platform. Up here at 120 meters a breathtaking panorama unfolds.
From this vantage point the entire city stretches before you. Look eastward and you might spot the Fichtelberg. It’s 110 km away. On clear days you might even see peaks in the Czech Republic like Jeleni Hora.
The Panorama Café once occupied the 26th and 27th floors. It was a popular spot during the GDR era. It closed in 1991 but a new panorama restaurant opened in 2002. Today it operates as “Plate of Art.”
The City-Hochhaus was once the tallest building in Germany. That was between 1968 and 1972. Now it ranks 24th. It’s a testament to Leipzig’s architectural evolution.
Before we leave reflect on the vision of Hermann Henselmann. He wanted to create landmarks that defined cities. The City-Hochhaus with its Aussichtsterrasse certainly achieves that. It’s a place where history architecture and panoramic beauty converge. The Aussichtsterrasse offers not just a view of Leipzig but a perspective on its past present and future.