Friedrichshain is a dynamic neighborhood at the crossroads of Berlin’s east and west. Once part of East Berlin, it now shares its territory with Kreuzberg to form the Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg borough. The iconic Oberbaumbrücke bridge gracefully spans the Spree River, connecting these two districts.
In Friedrichshain, you’ll discover the contemporary pulse of Berlin, alive with fashion, street art, and urban culture. Just a step away, you’ll find yourself immersed in the history of the former GDR (German Democratic Republic). Friedrichshain, often regarded as the unofficial capital of the east, showcases striking socialist-style architecture that serves as a backdrop to the stories of East Berlin.
At the heart of Friedrichshain, both old and new, lies the grand Strausberger Platz and the impressive Karl Marx Allee, which holds the distinction of being Europe’s longest architectural monument. As you venture toward Frankfurter Tor, the atmosphere takes on a different character. The neighborhood embraces inner-city living around Boxhagener Platz and Simon Dach Strasse, featuring an array of cafes, boutiques, bookshops, bars, clubs, and street markets.
Friedrichshain’s southern border is traced along the River Spree, leading eastward to the longest remaining stretch of the Berlin Wall. Here, you’ll find the renowned East Side Gallery, adorned with artworks by over a hundred artists from 21 countries, stretching over a kilometer.
Notably, Friedrichshain boasts the historic Oberbaumbrücke, one of the city’s oldest structures. While both Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg lay claim to the bridge, it truly belongs to both as part of their shared borough. Originally constructed in the 1700s as part of the city’s customs wall, the bridge has played a pivotal role in dividing and uniting Berlin’s residents over the centuries. Today, it stands as a cherished landmark and a testament to Berlin’s history.
Friedrichshain is where the spirit of freedom and liberty found its voice after the fall of the Berlin Wall, and this creative expression is evident throughout the neighborhood. Buildings are adorned with captivating street art, and every corner holds a unique story from the past. With its parks, riverside settings, and proximity to the Spree, Friedrichshain offers an ideal vantage point to experience the best of Berlin.
