Consider the Oberbaum City. It’s more than just an industrial complex. It is a testament to Berlin’s ever-evolving spirit.
Oberbaum City began as Berlin’s first waterworks in 1893. It then transformed into Deutsche Gasglühlicht AG’s manufacturing hub. The factory produced OSRAM lamps throughout the early 1900s.
The complex occupies several streets. These include Ehrenbergstraße and Rudolfstraße. Also Rotherstraße and Naglerstraße are part of the area. Conveniently, there are multiple public transport connections to central Berlin.
Look around at the distinct architectural features. Notice the red and yellow brick facades. Admire the decorative stone fountains. The former lamp factory complex spans multiple buildings.
Oberbaum City’s central tower dominates the skyline. Constructed in the 1920s, it was Berlin’s first high-rise building. The tower features a five-story glass crown. This was once used as a permanent burning laboratory.
Skip ahead to its modern transformation. Oberbaum City’s renovation converted manufacturing spaces. They are now contemporary offices. Today, it hosts over 70 companies. These operate in technology, design, and creative industries.
Another building got a vertical extension. Additional fully glazed floors were added.
The complex also integrates modern technologies. Plaster chilled ceilings and wall cooling were installed. This happened during the modernisation of the historic buildings. BASF Service Europe GmbH is headquartered here.
Now, imagine the bridge nearby. It’s the Oberbaumbrücke. The Oberbaumbrücke connects Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg. These districts are separated by the Spree. It offers one of the city’s most beautiful views. Throughout the 20th century, the bridge witnessed turmoil. It became the gateway between East and West Berlin during the Cold War. Identifiable by its red bricks and towers, it is now one of the symbols of Berlin. It represents German reunification.
The Oberbaumbrücke was a simple wooden dam in 1724. Ships paid customs duties here. Otto Stahn rebuilt it in its present form between 1894 and 1896. Neo-Gothic in inspiration, the monument has two floors. The upper floor houses the U-Bahn rails. The lower floor accommodates the street and its passers-by.
The Nazis blew up part of the Oberbaumbrücke in 1945. This aimed to repel the Red Army. The bridge played a major role in Berlin’s division after 1961. It served as a crossing point between East and West.
The Oberbaumbrücke reopened on November 9, 1994, after extensive renovations. Each year, inhabitants battle in a water bomb fight. They commemorate their former rivalry.
The Oberbaumbrücke is located between Schlesisches Tor and Warschauerstrasse. It sees a large amount of traffic every day. Covered sidewalks generally house concerts and street vendors.
From the Oberbaumbrücke, you can see the Molecule Man. This is a monumental sculpture on the Spree. You can also see the East Side Gallery. The bright yellow metro that runs through it is a delight for photographers.
Oberbaum City and the Oberbaumbrücke stand as testaments to Berlin’s resilience. They symbolize transformation and connection. They invite us to reflect on the past. They also embrace the future.