Dreaming of vegetables? The Kohlrabizirkus might just be the place for you. This unique structure stands as a testament to Leipzig’s innovative spirit. The Kohlrabizirkus began its life as the city’s wholesale market hall.
Construction of the Kohlrabizirkus spanned from 1928 to 1930. It was designed by Leipzig’s city architect, Hubert Ritter. Engineer Franz Dischinger handled the build. The domes were a record-breaking feat of reinforced concrete construction.
The name “Kohlrabizirkus” translates to “Kohlrabi Circus”. This playful name reflects its original purpose. It was a central hub for the city’s vegetable trade. Its location near the railway line allowed for quick and inexpensive deliveries.
Imagine this: Farmers bustling around. Vendors shouting prices. Fresh produce filling every corner of the vast space. The Kohlrabizirkus was the heart of Leipzig’s agricultural commerce.
The Kohlrabizirkus features two massive domes. Each dome measures 75 by 75 meters. They soar to a height of 33 meters. Each dome covers 5600 square meters. The octagonal domes rest on 13-meter-high reinforced concrete pillars. These pillars stand 30 meters apart. A round skylight crowns each dome.
These domes were architectural marvels. They were the largest solid domes in the world at the time of completion. In autumn 2013, the Federal Chamber of Engineers recognized them. They became a Historical Landmark of Engineering in Germany.
The market hall operated until October 31, 1995. Today, the Kohlrabizirkus serves a different purpose. It has transformed into a versatile event location. Its unusual architecture makes it ideal for various occasions.
With a total usable area of 30,000 square meters, the Kohlrabizirkus hosts temporary events. It is a creative hub in Leipzig’s dynamic southern district. The city of Leipzig acquired the Kohlrabizirkus in July 2021. The Leipzig Development and Marketing Company will renovate it.
The north hall accommodates up to 2500 people. It is used for concerts and flea markets. The south hall once housed Germany’s largest indoor ice-skating rink. Currently, the north hall is home to the Icefighters Leipzig. It serves as their home venue named anona ICEDOME.
The Kohlrabizirkus is more than just a building. It is a symbol of Leipzig’s past. It is a testament to its architectural ingenuity. The Kohlrabizirkus is a vibrant space for community and events. Take a moment to appreciate this unique structure. Its history and design make it a true Leipzig landmark.