“Unsanitary open markets must disappear!” That was the cry that led to the creation of Markthalle VII.
Markthalle VII was one of fourteen covered markets in Berlin. They were built after an 1881 decree. The Berlin Magistrate wanted to replace the unhygienic open markets.
The architect Hermann Blankenstein planned Halle VII. It opened on May 23 1888. The building stretched north of Oranienplatz in Berlin-Kreuzberg. It was located between Dresdener Straße 27 Luisenufer 15/16 and Buckower Straße 15.
Sadly Markthalle VII was largely destroyed in the Second World War. Today only two listed parts exist. You can find them in Dresdener Straße 27 and at Legiendamm 32.
Let’s focus on Dresdener Straße 27. This part has been used as a residential building since 1947. It features the historic brick cladding and the round arch style element. The main entrance portal no longer exists. But it was also formed by a round arch. Two corner towers emphasized it. Above the portal the facade shows the inscription Markthalle VII. It is structured by rich ornaments and friezes.
Now let’s move to Luisenufer 16 now Legiendamm 32. The one-story building is still preserved. It was directly connected to Markthalle VII. Until the end of March 2023 the restaurant Zur kleinen Markthalle was located here. It offers a view of the green space of the former Luisenstädtischer Kanal. The building with its richly decorated brick facade was already a restaurant when the hall was built.
On the first floor was living space for the landlord and his employees. A butchery belonging to the restaurant was located in the backyard. The counter buffet and the 1.50-meter-high wooden paneling on the walls are still preserved from the original interior.
Historic photos on the walls show the entire complex of Markthalle VII. The original address of this building was Louisen-Ufer 5 until 1888. Then it was Luisenufer 16 until 1937 then Kösterdamm 32. Since 1947 it has been Legiendamm 32.
Imagine the hustle and bustle of the market. Vendors called out their wares. Customers haggled over prices. The aromas of fresh produce meat and spices filled the air. Markthalle VII was more than just a market. It was a social hub. People met friends neighbors and family. They exchanged news gossip and stories. It was a vital part of the community.
Today only fragments of Markthalle VII remain. Yet they stand as a reminder of Berlin’s rich history. They remind us of a time when markets were the heart of the city. They were places where people came together to share food community and life. The legacy of Markthalle VII lives on in these preserved pieces. It is a testament to Berlin’s enduring spirit.