At Schlossplatz 1 in Berlin’s Mitte district, this former seat of East Germany’s State Council now houses a private business school. Its public ground-floor hall gives you a close look at restored socialist-era decoration and glass art. The building also preserves Portal IV from the demolished City Palace, a portal with a link to Karl Liebknecht’s 1918 proclamation of the Socialist Republic. You can see the hall without a tour; access to the rest of the building requires advance booking.
A former seat of East German government
The building at Schlossplatz 1 once housed the State Council of the German Democratic Republic. It now accommodates a private business school, while retaining socialist symbols and decoration that point to its earlier role. The change of use is part of the visit: the former government building is still in use, and its past remains visible in the interior.
Portal IV and the public hall
Portal IV came from the City Palace, which was later demolished. It is the only original façade section of the royal residence to survive, and it has a distinct political history: Karl Liebknecht proclaimed the Socialist Republic from the portal in 1918. The rebuilt palace next door is a modern reconstruction.
The ground-floor hall is accessible to the public and contains glass art and restored socialist-era details. To enter the rest of the building, arrange a tour in advance. Tours take place twice a month and can be booked months ahead.
Perguntas frequentes
Can you enter the former State Council building?
The ground-floor hall is open to the public. You need to book a tour in advance to see the rest of the building.
Do you need to book a tour?
Yes, if you want to see beyond the ground floor. Tours are held twice a month and can fill months ahead.
What is Portal IV?
It is an original portal from the demolished City Palace, incorporated into the building. Karl Liebknecht proclaimed the Socialist Republic there in 1918.
What is the building used for now?
It houses a private business school.
