What do you need to know about the Schöneberg district in Berlin?

Schoeneberg: A district of Berlin

Schöneberg is a picturesque district located in Berlin, just a few minutes from the city center. It attracts the middle class with its unique architecture and well-developed infrastructure.

History of the district

Previously, Schöneberg was an independent city, but in 1920 it was integrated into Greater Berlin as one of the new municipal districts. As a result of the local government reform in 2001, Schöneberg was merged with the neighboring Tempelhof, forming the combined district of Tempelhof-Schöneberg.

Real estate in Schöneberg

As of today, there are a large number of attractive real estate options available in Schöneberg. For example, among the particularly interesting offerings are apartments in modern residential complexes with parking and green areas nearby. Prices for such apartments start at €363,000, and the completion of construction is scheduled for the third quarter of 2024. A total of 219 apartments will be available in this project.

Examples of apartments and prices

• One-bedroom apartments with an area of 50 square meters — 544,000 euros.
• Two-bedroom apartments of the same size cost 454,000 euros.
• Cozy apartment with 66 square meters — 272,000 euros (rent).

Investors may want to pay attention to new two-bedroom apartments, the yield of which varies from3.92%to4.06%Depending on their area — 46 or 43 square meters — they have price ranges from 310,000 to 337,000 euros, respectively.

Spacious options

If we talk about more spacious options, you can find in the area:

• Apartments with balconies and three bedrooms for a price of approximately858,000 euroswith a total area115 square meters.
• Three-room apartments in a new building for788,000 euroswith an area85 square meters.

The historical roots of Schöneberg

The historical roots of Schöneberg date back to the distant year of 1264, when Margrave Otto III allocated his lands for a women's monastery in Spandau. The original streets of the settlement included major thoroughfares such as Hauptstraße, Dominicusstraße, and Akazienstraße.

In 1750, Frederick the Great, despite the local residents' reluctance, allowed Czech weavers to establish a new village nearby, which became known as New Schöneberg. It stretched from present-day Hauptstraße to Grunewaldstraße.

Schöneberg experienced significant destruction during the Seven Years' War in 1760, when the area was almost wiped off the map due to the siege of Berlin by Russian and Austrian troops. However, even after such calamities, the residents began to organize and interact, and it wasn't until 1874 that the official unification of Old and New Schöneberg took place.

Joining Berlin

By the mid-19th century, the area was successfully developing and approaching the rapidly growing Berlin. In 1861, King Wilhelm I made the decision to annex the territory that stretched from Potsdamer Straße, where a new district called Schöneberg Vorstadt was declared. Thus, the previously independent city of Schöneberg became an integral part of the capital, enriching its cultural and sociocultural diversity.

The History of Schöneberg

After the establishment of the German state in 1871, the population of Schöneberg began to grow rapidly. While at the turn of 1871 the residents of this area barely exceeded five thousand, by 1900 their number had increased to nearly 96 thousand, and by 1919 it had reached over 175 thousand. In response to such accelerated growth, the dynamics of the area's development led to Schöneberg being granted city status in 1898.

Infrastructure development

The active development of urban infrastructure was part of Mayor Rudolf Wilde's ambitious plan, which included the construction of a town hall, the creation of a park, and the launch of a subway system.

Construction of the town hall and subway

At the dawn of the 20th century, under the management of Wilde, preparatory work began for the construction of the city hall. To drain the area designated for the construction, soil extracted during the expansion of the Schöneberg subway was used. In 1910, Schöneberg became the second city in Germany to have an underground metro after Berlin.

The Schöneberg subway consisted of five stations:

• “Nollendorfplatz”
• “Victoria-Louise-Platz”
• "Bavarian Square"
• “Schöneberg Town Hall”
• “Innsbruck Square”

As of today, these stations are part of the fourth line of the Berlin subway.

Completion of projects

The completion of the town hall construction took place in 1914, while the city park was opened two years earlier. All the initiatives planned by Rudolf Wilde were successfully completed by his successors after his passing. The square in front of the town hall was named in honor of the mayor who made a significant contribution to the city's development, and it is now named after him.Rudolf-Wilde-PlatzIn 1920, Schöneberg became part of unified Berlin.

Post-war period

During World War II, the northern and western parts of Schöneberg experienced significant destruction, with approximately one-third of all buildings being destroyed. After the war, Schöneberg found itself in the American occupation zone.

For many years, the Schöneberg Town Hall served as the location for the Berlin Senate and the House of Representatives, continuing this role until 1991, when the administrations returned to the Red Town Hall located in the Mitte district. Since 1946, the American sector began broadcasting from Schöneberg, which significantly influenced public opinion in the GDR.

John Kennedy's visit

The visit of American President John F. Kennedy to West Berlin in 1963 became one of the key milestones in the history of Schöneberg. On June 26, he delivered his famous speech " I am a Berliner"in the square in front of the town hall, demonstrating support and solidarity from the West Berliners during the construction of the GDR wall."

In honor of this important event, Rudolf Wilde Square was renamed toJohn F. Kennedy Plazawhile the park in Schöneberg was named after Rudolf Wilde.

Unique neighborhoods of Schöneberg

As for the districts of Schöneberg, one of them isBavarian Quarterthe Bayerisches Viertel, which is considered prestigious and is known for its streets named after Bavarian cities. Another interesting place isRote InselRote Insel, which became known as the birthplace of the famous actress Marlene Dietrich.

These neighborhoods add uniqueness and diversity to the dynamically developing Schöneberg district of Berlin.

Zyudgelende: The Green Corner of Berlin

In Berlin, there is the district of Südgelände, which is famous for its vast green spaces and diverse nature. This park has become a preferred place for relaxation for the capital's residents and its guests due to its rich flora. Beyond the ring road lies the district of Lindenhof, which beautifully complements the picture of Berlin with its tranquility and an atmosphere that preserves the spirit of the past.

The history of the Schöneberg Town Hall

The Schöneberg Town Hall, built in 1914, holds significant historical importance. This architectural landmark has served as the residence for the mayor and the senate of West Berlin since 1948, until the reunification of the country. During this time, local council meetings were also held here.

One of the key historical events took place in the square in front of the town hall when American President John F. Kennedy delivered his legendary phrase "Ich bin ein Berliner," which left a significant mark in the city's history.

Heinrich von Kleist Park

The Heinrich von Kleist Park, known for its attractive appearance and deep historical roots, dates back to 1679.

Historical context of the restoration

In 1993, the courthouse building was recognized as a site of architectural heritage and underwent extensive restoration. Notably, in front of the main entrance to this historically significant site, you can see two bronze sculptures. These famous "Klodt horses" were gifted by Nicholas I to his brother-in-law Friedrich Wilhelm IV in honor of the anniversary of his reign on the Prussian throne in 1840. Interestingly, these statues also adorn the Anichkov Bridge in St. Petersburg. Moreover, plaques have been preserved that indicate the donation of these sculptures.

The charm of the Ceciliengarten district

The Ceciliengärten district, which emerged in the 1920s, captivates its residents and tourists with its abundance of greenery and fountains. The blooming cherry blossoms that unfold in April and May give this place a uniquely romantic atmosphere. The district was named in honor of the magnificent Princess Cecilie of Mecklenburg-Schwerin, who was the wife of the Prussian Crown Prince Wilhelm and the great-granddaughter of the Russian Tsar Nicholas I.

This is an amazing little spot of tranquility, where life flows slowly, away from the noisy rhythm and hustle of the city. An idyllic atmosphere reigns here, surrounded by blooming lilacs and rose bushes.

Kadewe Department Store

The Kadewe department store, or Kaufhaus des Westens, is considered one of the most famous shopping centers in the German capital and is comparable to large stores like Harrods in London and Galeries Lafayette in Paris. This department store was founded over a hundred years ago and became renowned for its high level of service. It was created by Berlin entrepreneur Adolf Jandorf in the early 20th century, who at that time already owned several stores and decided to open a new one at Wittenbergplatz.

Key achievements of Kadewe

• Goal:Satisfying the needs of affluent clientele by offering high-end products.
• Traffic accident:In 1943, the department store suffered serious damage due to the crash of an American plane that was shot down over Berlin, resulting in the destruction of the roof and upper floors.
• Recovery:The work began in 1950 under the guidance of architect Hans Zoll.
• Opening:In the summer of 1950, the first floor was officially opened, attracting nearly 180,000 visitors on its very first day.
• Completion of work:In 1956, the reconstruction of all seven floors was completed, and the famous grocery section was opened.

Development and scale of Kadewe

The original area of the department store was 24,000 square meters, but after extensive renovations and expansions, its size increased to an impressive 60,000 square meters. Kadewe employs around two thousand staff members who undergo additional training, including courses in rhetoric, business fundamentals, and product presentation techniques. This department store has become not just a shopping destination, but a true symbol of shopping in Germany, embodying luxury and high-quality service.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I want to emphasize that Schöneberg is not just a district of Berlin; it is a living chronicle of the city, filled with history, culture, and spirit. Since its founding in 1264 until its incorporation into Greater Berlin in 1920, Schöneberg has undergone numerous transformations. This place has witnessed a variety of significant historical events, such as the uprising of Czech weavers, wartime destruction, and cultural changes in the post-war years.

It is equally important to note the modern aspect of the area: the variety of housing, from cozy apartments to luxurious flats with picturesque balconies, which makes it attractive for both locals and investors. Schöneberg, with its charming streets, parks, and unique atmosphere, continues to draw the attention of those considering the area for living or investment.

Why should you visit Schöneberg?

• Preserved architectural monuments.
• Unique history and culture.
• The diversity of modern residential complexes.

I hope this brief overview has helped you better understand why Schöneberg is worth visiting or even considering as a place to live. With each passing year, this area not only preserves its architectural landmarks and history but also creates new opportunities for living and business, all while remaining a place where history meets modernity.

Key aspects of Schoenberg:

• DynamismSchoeneberg is the heart of Berlin with its lifestyle.
• Intuitive infrastructureconvenient streets and accessibility of public transport.
• Cultural diversityEvents, exhibitions, and concerts attract people from all corners of the city.

Ultimately, Schöneberg is the heart of Berlin with its lifestyle, opportunities, and dynamism. I believe that every street, every building here tells its own unique story, and that makes the district special. If you haven't been to Schöneberg yet, I sincerely recommend visiting this wonderful corner of Berlin life and experiencing its atmosphere for yourself.