Schöneberg possesses a unique character and boasts a captivating, diverse history. It has been a residence for renowned intellectuals and artists such as Albert Einstein, Marlene Dietrich, David Bowie, and Iggy Pop. Over the centuries, it has transformed from a small village into an inner-city sanctuary for the middle and upper classes.
The charming neighborhoods nestled between Viktoria Luise Platz and Bayerischer Platz showcase the finest architecture from the Prussian era’s twilight, known as the Bavarian Quarter. Martin Luther Strasse offers splendid examples of pre and post-war architecture, with efforts to restore damaged buildings from WWII and introduce newer architectural styles.
The graceful Schöneberg Town Hall is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, as it was the site of US President John F. Kennedy’s iconic 1963 speech, expressing America’s support for West Berlin. Schöneberg also bears the somber memory of over 16,000 Jews deported to concentration camps from the streets around Münchener Strasse.
For cabaret enthusiasts, Schöneberg’s Nollendorfplatz area was the vibrant heart of ‘the roaring 20s,’ inhabited by those who brought this era to life. Many of the city’s bourgeoisie resided here, and it’s where the character Sally Bowles from Christopher Isherwood’s beloved ‘Cabaret’ was inspired. Today, the area remains vibrant and open-minded, with a significant LGBTQ+ population.
Schöneberg’s distinctive landmark is the towering gasometer, nearly 100 meters tall, dominating the local skyline. It serves as a historical reminder and inspires contemporary architecture in the vicinity. Local shopping is a delight, with Winterfeldplatz weekend market offering fresh regional produce and the historic KaDeWe, Europe’s largest department store, providing the finest global food, fashion, homewares, and accessories.
While Schöneberg might not be the most talked-about area in Berlin, it is undoubtedly the most graceful and unassuming, with numerous surprises awaiting those who take the time to explore its charms.
