Swimming here has a rich past. The Stadtbad Schöneberg, now known as the Hans Rosenthal Bad, is more than just a swimming pool. It’s a landmark with a story etched in its walls.
The Stadtbad Schöneberg first opened its doors in 1930. Heinrich Lassen, a city building councilor, designed it. It was built as a functional structure. The goal was to provide a space for sports. It also aimed to offer hygiene facilities to Berliners who lacked bathrooms in their homes.
Originally, the Stadtbad Schöneberg featured a three-story main building. It also included a central section housing the ten-meter-high swimming hall. Two towers of different heights stood at the rear.
However, time took its toll. In 1989, the bath had to be closed due to structural defects. A major renovation took place between 1995 and 1999. This included extensive remodeling and the addition of a new hall. A warm outdoor pool was also added. Sadly, these improvements were short-lived. Massive construction flaws forced another closure in 2009 for further renovation.
The Stadtbad Schöneberg reopened in January 2012. It was then that it was renamed in honor of Hans Rosenthal. Rosenthal was a famous showmaster.
Hans Rosenthal’s story adds another layer to the pool’s history. As a Jew, he was banned from learning to swim during the Nazi era. In 1950, he finally learned to swim. This took place at the Stadtbad Schöneberg. Naming the pool after him was a tribute to his resilience.
But even this reopening wasn’t the end of the story. Since January 2, 2024, the Stadtbad Schöneberg has been closed again. The technical systems could no longer ensure water quality. The Berlin bathing facilities hope for a quick start to the construction work.
The Stadtbad Schöneberg has seen many changes. In its current form, it has a 25-meter pool. There is also a cafeteria, an outdoor pool, and whirlpools. These features were added during the 1990s renovation. Today, the Stadtbad Schöneberg is a protected monument.
Imagine the echoes of laughter and splashing within these walls. Think of the generations who have learned to swim here. Consider the historical weight the Stadtbad Schöneberg carries. This is not just a swimming pool. It’s a piece of Berlin’s history.