Wasserturm Krankenhaus Neukölln

Gazing up at the towering Wasserturm Krankenhaus Neukölln, one can almost hear the echoes of its industrious past. This imposing structure, once the heart of Neukölln’s water supply, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and foresight of its creators. The Wasserturm Krankenhaus Neukölln, built between 1893 and 1894, was designed by architect Otto Techow. It was commissioned by the Charlottenburger Wasserwerke AG, a private company responsible for providing water to the rapidly expanding Rixdorf, later known as Neukölln. The tower’s design, inspired by the Juliusturm in Spandau, features a conical brick wall, thicker at the base and narrowing towards the top. This sturdy construction, with its decorative arched recesses and cornice moldings, housed a massive riveted tank. This tank, perched 30 meters high, held an impressive 2240 cubic meters of water. The tower’s height ensured sufficient water pressure for the burgeoning community below. During World War II, the Wasserturm Krankenhaus Neukölln suffered damage in three separate locations on its tank. Remarkably, it was repaired and continued its vital service. The Wasserturm Krankenhaus Neukölln ceased operation in 1999. Since then, it has been used occasionally for cultural events and celebrations. Although no longer actively supplying water, it has become a landmark in its own right. The Wasserturm Krankenhaus Neukölln reminds us of a time when access to clean water was a paramount concern. It stands as a symbol of the community’s growth and resilience, its red brick facade echoing the vibrant history of Neukölln.