Rathaus Köpenick

Rathaus Köpenick, a magnificent architectural gem located in the Treptow-Köpenick district of Berlin, is a fascinating blend of history, culture, and stunning design. This historic town hall, constructed between 1901 and 1905, stands proudly at Alt-Köpenick 21, serving as a testament to the rich heritage and dynamic growth of the area. Let's embark on a journey to explore the captivating stories and architectural marvels of Rathaus Köpenick.

The Historical Roots of Rathaus Köpenick

The story of Rathaus Köpenick begins long before its current incarnation. In the 18th century, the burgeoning bourgeoisie of Cöpenick (now Köpenick) required a representative building to accommodate the new responsibilities of the community. Under the leadership of Mayor Georg Friedrich Cardinal von Widdern, a modest two-story plaster building was erected in 1763 at the corner of Schloßstraße (now Alt-Köpenick) and Rosenstraße, near the Köpenick Palace. This predecessor was distinguished by a triangular gable adorned with the city’s coat of arms, a common feature of Gothic town halls.

Fast forward to the late 19th century, the need for a more modern and spacious administrative building became apparent. On November 20, 1896, Mayor Gustav Borgmann presented a comprehensive plan for a new town hall, which included a 200 square meter meeting hall, fireproof plan chamber, gas lighting, central heating, and ventilation system for the 72 office rooms. After a period of deliberation, the city council approved the project on December 16, 1898.

The Construction of the New Town Hall

The construction of the new Rathaus Köpenick was an ambitious project. The city hired Hans Schütte, an architect and former government master builder, to bring the vision to life. However, Schütte soon left for a more lucrative position, and the project was continued by Hugo Kinzer, an architect based in Charlottenburg. Together, they designed a three-story corner building with a 54-meter-high tower, incorporating elements of Middle Mark Brandenburg brick Gothic style to create a dignified city center.

The construction was carried out in two phases to ensure that the old town hall and police building could remain operational until the new building was ready. The first phase was completed on August 15, 1902, and the city administration moved into the new premises. The second phase began with the demolition of the old town hall and the construction of the main part of the new building. The foundation stone was laid on December 8, 1902, and the building was officially inaugurated on October 7, 1905, by Mayor Georg Langerhans.

The Infamous Hauptmann von Köpenick

Rathaus Köpenick gained worldwide fame on October 16, 1906, when Friedrich Wilhelm Voigt, an unemployed shoemaker, executed a daring heist. Dressed in a captain’s uniform, Voigt commandeered ten soldiers and marched into the town hall, arresting Mayor Langerhans and seizing the city treasury. The audacious act, known as the Hauptmann von Köpenick affair, became legendary and was later commemorated with a bronze statue of Voigt, created by Armenian sculptor Spartak Babajan, which stands outside the town hall.

Architectural Marvels and Interior Elegance

The architectural beauty of Rathaus Köpenick is evident in its intricate brickwork, soaring tower, and Gothic-inspired elements. The main entrance, adorned with ornate arches and windows, invites visitors into a world of historical elegance. Inside, the building boasts numerous office rooms, a grand meeting hall, and the Ratskeller, which opened on April 1, 1905, featuring a guest hall, private rooms, and wine cellars.

The ground floor houses 20 office rooms, the police department’s living and working quarters, and the city savings bank with a vault. The first floor includes 25 office rooms, the mayor’s living and working quarters, a small meeting room for the magistrate, and three rooms for the registry office. The second floor features 22 office rooms and the city council meeting hall, while the third floor contains additional office spaces.

Expansions and Modernization

As Köpenick grew, so did the need for more administrative space. In 1927, an extension was added along Böttcherstraße, providing 35 additional office rooms. Further expansion plans were proposed in 1936, including a significant extension with 122 office rooms, a large assembly hall, and new business premises for the Berlin City Bank. However, these plans were interrupted by World War II and were only partially completed in 1949.

In the post-war years, further renovations and expansions were carried out, including the addition of 20 office rooms in the attic in the 1990s, bringing the total number of office rooms to 340 by 2010. The inner courtyard was also renovated in the 2010s, revealing remnants of the original town hall from the 18th century.

A Living Monument

Today, Rathaus Köpenick stands as a living monument, blending historical charm with modern functionality. It continues to serve as the administrative heart of Köpenick, housing various municipal offices and services. The town hall is not only a place of governance but also a cultural landmark, hosting events, exhibitions, and guided tours that offer visitors a glimpse into its storied past.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, Rathaus Köpenick is a must-visit destination. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and the legendary tale of the Hauptmann von Köpenick make it a captivating landmark in the vibrant city of Berlin.