Sommerbad Kreuzberg

Amidst the vibrant tapestry of Kreuzberg, lies a beloved oasis. It’s the Sommerbad Kreuzberg, affectionately nicknamed “Prinzenbad”. Sommerbad Kreuzberg sits proudly near the bustling Prinzenstraße U-Bahn station. This public pool isn’t just a place to cool off. It’s a microcosm of Berlin itself. Opened in 1956, Sommerbad Kreuzberg was built on the site of a former English gasworks. This history came back to haunt the city in the winter of 1978/1979. High levels of pollutants were discovered in the ground, necessitating extensive and expensive remediation. Over 30 million Marks (equivalent to roughly 41.6 million Euros today) were spent to make the Sommerbad Kreuzberg safe again for the public. A further renovation in 1984, costing 15 million Marks, saw the buildings and pools rebuilt. The diving platforms, once a prominent feature, were removed during this renovation. Today, Sommerbad Kreuzberg boasts two expansive 50-meter pools and a large non-swimmer pool complete with a thrilling water slide and a playful water mushroom. For the little ones, there’s a dedicated children’s pool and a playground with its own splash area. The large sunbathing lawn offers ample space for relaxation. A cafeteria with a terrace provides refreshments. Up to 9000 visitors flock to Sommerbad Kreuzberg daily. In the summer of 2018 alone, it welcomed an impressive 330,000 guests. This popularity isn’t just due to the facilities. It’s the unique atmosphere. It’s a place where the LGBTQ+ community, families, and early-morning lap swimmers coexist harmoniously. Sommerbad Kreuzberg reflects the multicultural heart of Kreuzberg. It’s a place where Berlin’s diverse population comes together to enjoy the simple pleasures of summer. Evenings at Sommerbad Kreuzberg have not always been tranquil. In July 2010, a mass brawl involving around 60 youths led to the evacuation of the pool. Despite this incident, Sommerbad Kreuzberg remains a treasured landmark. It stands as a testament to Berlin’s resilience and its ability to transform spaces. It also signifies the city’s commitment to providing inclusive spaces for recreation and leisure.