Rathausstraße

Rathausstraße in Berlin's Mitte district is one of the city's oldest shopping streets, running from Gontardstraße at Alexanderplatz to Rathausbrücke. Originally known as Oderberger Straße, the route ran straight through medieval Berlin. In the 17th century it became Georgenstraße, and in 1701, after the ceremonial entry of King Frederick I, it was renamed Königsstraße. That name lasted until 1951, when the street was renamed Rathausstraße as part of the renamings in East Berlin. Today the section between Alexanderplatz and Jüdenstraße is a pedestrian zone that opens onto the wide, undeveloped area around the Television Tower.

The street's history is closely tied to the development of Berlin's administration and transportation. The old town hall was demolished, and between 1861 and 1869 the new red-brick building was constructed on the south side; it later earned the nickname Rotes Rathaus (Red City Hall). In the early 20th century, the narrow street developed into an important shopping and transportation hub, with numerous streetcars running through it. After World War II, which destroyed many buildings, the tracks were removed and the remaining structures were partly cleared to make room for the Berlin Television Tower and new housing. In the 1990s the Rathauspassagen shopping arcades were renovated, and the former restaurant site was replaced in 2000/2001 by the Cubix multiplex cinema.

Today the street is defined by a mix of historic fabric and modern infrastructure. Underground, the U5 subway line was extended to the new Rotes Rathaus station, and during construction from 2009 to 2020, 16 forgotten works of classic modern art were rediscovered. At the corner of Gontardstraße, the Alea 101 residential and commercial building has stood since 2014. The surroundings are dominated by green spaces and the Rotes Rathaus, while current plans call for developing the public space further for relaxation and lingering. Here you'll experience a mix of urban flair, historic architecture, and modern recreation in the heart of Berlin.