On the Spree in Berlin’s government district, the Marie-Elisabeth-Lüders-Haus is a parliamentary building designed by Stephan Braunfels and inaugurated in 2003. Its glass-and-concrete exterior is known for a huge circular window, while the riverside setting gives you clear views of the building and its reflections. A bridge connects it with the Paul-Löbe-Haus as part of the Federal Ribbon, an ensemble associated with German unity. Along the former route of the Berlin Wall, reconstructed sections and a public memorial add a historical dimension to a walk around the complex.
A building across the Spree
Designed by architect Stephan Braunfels, the Marie-Elisabeth-Lüders-Haus was inaugurated in 2003. It is part of the Federal Ribbon, the parliamentary building ensemble that crosses the Spree in Berlin’s government district. The neighbouring Paul-Löbe-Haus and the Lüders-Haus are joined by a pedestrian bridge, creating a direct link between the buildings on either side of the river.
The complex stands on the former route of the Berlin Wall. Its position gives the architectural connection across the water a particular resonance in a city once divided between East and West. The building’s name honours Marie-Elisabeth Lüders, a German politician and campaigner for women’s rights.
Architecture and river views
Concrete, glass and steel give the building a spare, contemporary appearance. Its large circular window is the most recognisable element, set within a broad façade that changes in character with the light and the river reflections. From the opposite or parallel bank, the circle can be framed against the full face of the building. A person in the frame can help show its scale.
The Marie-Elisabeth-Lüders-Steg, the pedestrian bridge to the Paul-Löbe-Haus, is another notable part of the complex. It has two levels and forms both a practical crossing and a visual link between the parliamentary buildings. Walking along the river lets you see how the bridge, façades and water relate to one another.
Parliamentary work and the Wall memorial
The building houses the Bundestag’s library and research services, along with parliamentary offices and meeting rooms. Its central hall is described as light-filled, and the parliamentary library brings a large collection together under one roof. The interior is part of a working government facility, so access arrangements can differ from an outdoor walk around the site. Check current visitor information before planning an indoor visit.
Sections of the Berlin Wall have been reconstructed along the route where the barrier once stood, and a public memorial marks that history. In the evening, a projection on the façade presents German political history. Together, the memorial and projection give the modern parliamentary setting a direct connection to the city’s divided past.
FAQ
Where is the Marie-Elisabeth-Lüders-Haus?
It is on the Spree in Berlin’s government district, at Adele-Schreiber-Krieger-Straße 1. The building is connected by pedestrian bridge to the Paul-Löbe-Haus.
Can you go inside the building?
It is a working parliamentary facility. Check current visitor access and exhibition arrangements before planning an indoor visit.
What is the Berlin Wall connection?
The building stands along the former route of the Berlin Wall. Reconstructed sections and a public memorial mark the former border.
When is a good time to photograph the building?
Sunset brings warm light to the façade and reflections on the Spree. The political-history projection takes place in the evening.
