“A harmonius blend of old and new” – that’s what the architect must have thought when he designed the building we’re standing in front of, the Ratswaage. Now, before you dismiss it as “just another pretty building”, let me tell you, the Ratswaage has seen more than its fair share of Potsdam’s history. Imagine, back in 1735, this entire spot started as a humble timber-framed house. That’s right, timber-framed! It housed the royal grain and malt scales, a vital part of the city’s commerce. As Potsdam grew, so did the need for a grander weighing house. In 1836, the old timber structure made way for the elegant building you see today. But the story doesn’t end there. This building, with its graceful lines and commanding presence, became home to the city’s official weighing scales – the Ratswaage – in 1875. Today, the Ratswaage isn’t weighing grain anymore, but it still holds a significant place in the heart of Potsdam. It houses a renowned restaurant known for its exquisite “New Prussian Cuisine”. So, next time you hear “Ratswaage”, remember, it’s not just a building, it’s a legacy, a testament to Potsdam’s evolution from a royal town to a vibrant city.
Rote Villa
Why is it called the *Rote Villa*, you might wonder, as you stand before this striking building? Well, its nickname,