... an invitation to pay a visit to the Palace of Republic in Berlin, the capital of germany. Its name is still correct in our time, but it was erected at a time when another republic existed in germany also.
In this time this remarkable building of a new cultural category was constructed. A country, wich had not a very comfortable position, was able to afford the most modern cultural building in Europe. Among the 65 largest cultural buildings of multiple purpose all over the world - for instance the Congress-Hall in Helsinki of Alvar Aalto, the Centre Pompidou in Paris or the ICC in Berlin - the Palace of the Republic is number one, on account of its sophisticated technics.

This palace should express a new feeling of culture, the feeling of the firm connection between state and people. But there was something wrong in this connection as history tells us.

Nevertheless, this piece of modern architecture is demonstrating, that the architects and builders were devoted to the fundamental idea of bringing together state and people. This was a continuation of the "people's house", an old socialdemocratic tradition. Today it is hardly imaginable, to have parliamentary sessions, public restaurants and a theatre in the same building. Every security-guard would run the risk of a heart attack, if the security-area around the house of parliament should be not more than barely 20 m.

In this house history was made. The first free elected parliament of the G.D.G. paved here the way to the German unification. For that reason and not at last with regard to the 40 years history of two separated states, wich are now reunited, is it necessary to do everything to preserve the house. During the last years to much was lost, wich has been of importance for the citizens east of the river Elbe. Of course, much has been destroyed before, but is that any justification for a renewed spirit of destruction?

Unfortunately is it not possible to enter the house any more, because it is closed for technical reasons at present. As matters stand, many Germans have now no opportunity to get a direct impression of this piece of architecture and its functions. Therefore I invite you, to stroll with me across the house and its past.

The photos, available to us, are not complete, and perhaps are there better ones. We are grateful for everything, wich could make the stroll more impressive and complete.