Wow look at the Haus des Reisens. This imposing building stands tall on Alexanderplatz. It’s a real testament to socialist modern architecture. Built between 1969 and 1971 the Haus des Reisens was more than just an office building.
For years it served as the headquarters for the GDR’s travel agency. Imagine the bustle. People planning trips to exotic destinations within the Eastern Bloc. Or perhaps securing permits for coveted Western trips. The Haus des Reisens was the heart of it all. Even the ground floor hummed with activity. Ticket counters for trains and planes operated around the clock.
A special service catered to foreign visitors. Imagine a weary traveler arriving late at night. They could find assistance at the Haus des Reisens. The central foreign visitors service was always open. It included a foreign registration service run by the Volkspolizei. There was even an exchange office for currency. The building even boasted its own espresso bar with seating for sixty people. Forty more could relax outside. This Haus des Reisens was truly a hub for all travelers.
The Haus des Reisens is especially unique for its stunning artwork. A massive copper relief adorns its eastern facade. The work of Walter Womacka it’s titled The Man Conquers Time and Space. It measures twenty-four meters by five meters. This is the same artist who designed the Fountain of Friendship of Peoples and the frieze Our Life on the House of Teachers.
After the fall of the Berlin Wall the building saw new tenants. The once grand interiors were completely altered. Clubs have come and gone. FitX a fitness center now occupies a portion of the space. But the Haus des Reisens stands strong. A powerful reminder of Berlin’s history. It is also a prominent example of 1970s international architecture. In fact it’s been a protected landmark since July 2015. Originally plans called for its demolition. But thanks to its status as a monument it remains intact.
So the next time you see the Haus des Reisens remember its captivating past. It’s more than just a building. It’s a gateway to the stories of travelers and the era of the GDR. A place that helped shape the urban fabric of Berlin.