Red City Hall, or Rotes Rathaus, is Berlin’s city hall at Rathausstraße 15, near Alexanderplatz. Built from red brick between 1861 and 1869, the neo-Renaissance building is the seat of the Governing Mayor and Berlin Senate. Look closely at its clock tower, arched windows and façade details, then step inside to see historic halls and displays about Berlin. Entry is free, though not every room is open to visitors. Nearby stops include Neptune Fountain, Berlin Cathedral and the TV Tower.
A city hall built in red brick
Rotes Rathaus takes its name from the red bricks covering its façade. Architect Hermann Friedrich Waesemann designed the building, which was constructed between 1861 and 1869 in a style combining Italian High Renaissance and Gothic elements.
The clock tower is visible from a distance, but the façade rewards a closer look. Notice the arches, statues and columns. The building remains the seat of Berlin’s Governing Mayor and Senate.
Inside the public areas
Visitors can enter the building for free and see historic halls, including spaces with murals and detailed interior decoration. Displays cover Berlin’s political and cultural history, and one exhibition presents gifts received from other countries. The red-carpeted entrance is another detail to look out for.
The city hall continues to function as a government building, so access is limited to areas open to the public. Some rooms, including the council chamber, may be open to visitors, but not all parts of the building can be explored.
A stop among central Berlin sights
The city hall stands near Alexanderplatz. Neptune Fountain is directly in front of it, and Berlin Cathedral, the TV Tower and Nikolaiviertel are also within walking distance. This makes Rotes Rathaus easy to add to a walk between central Berlin landmarks.
You can appreciate the exterior without going inside. If you want to see the public halls and displays as well, allow around 15 to 20 minutes and arrive shortly before closing for a quieter visit.
Perguntas frequentes
Is entry to Red City Hall free?
Yes. Entry is free.
How long should I allow for Red City Hall?
Allow around 15 to 20 minutes for a short visit.
Can visitors see every room inside?
No. Red City Hall is still a working government building, and not all rooms are open to visitors.
Is Red City Hall wheelchair accessible?
The entrance and restroom are wheelchair accessible.
