House of World Cultures
The House of World Cultures (Haus der Kulturen der Welt in German) is a world-class center for arts and culture. Boasting a visionary design appealing to anyone fond of unique architecture, it lies on the bank of the Spree River in Tiergarten Park. It is within walking distance of the Brandenburg Gate
The HKW serves as a venue to various arts from around the world. Events include the performing arts (music, theatre, dance), Literature, Readings, Education, Exhibitions and more.
During summer an open-air show called Wassermusik offers the audience a journey through music from around the world.
On the terrace one can experience unique concerts, films, and documentaries with the Spree River as a backdrop.
Visit the official website linked below to see the program calendar.
History
Designed and erected as a gift to West Berlin by America in 1957, the complex was an emblem of good will and part of an architectural exhibition.
Originally called Kongresshalle (Congress Hall), the HKW is an iconic and prominent Berlin landmark, distinguished for its Oyster shaped roof.
Tragically, the engineering did not live up to the exceptional design concept. In 1980 the roof collapsed resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries.
The roof was rebuilt seven years later in time for Berlin’s 750th anniversary. At the same time, they built a bell tower housing 68 bells next to the hall - the largest carillon in the world.
Two years afterward the building began its present-day role as the HDK (Haus der Kulturen der Welt).
Dining
At the HKW, the Auster restaurant serves delicious seafood and traditional fare with an enjoyable view of the Spree.
Parking is almost non-existent, so it’s best to arrive by bus or boat. This is the only venue in Berlin with a riverboat station.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: You can view the outside of this iconic building for free. Admission to events varies. See the official website for more information.Haus der Kulturen der Welt Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 12:00 – 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 – 7:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 7:00 PM
Address: John-Foster-Dulles-Allee 10, 10557 Berlin, Germany
Phone: 030 397870
Official Website: Haus der Kulturen der Welt
Haus der Kulturen der Welt Reviews
Rated out of 5
I recently visited here on a Museumssontag and had the chance to see the Fertile Void exhibition. Both the presentation and the exhibition itself were great.
What stood out just as much was the building’s architecture. The combination of an interesting exhibition and such an impressive venue made my visit unforgettable.
Doğa - 4 months ago
We recently visited for one of the screenings of Blue Moon at the Berlinale, and it was a fantastic place - very comfortable and welcoming. Would recommend. A cute experience. 🩷
sara - a month ago
Walking aline along tge riverbank, i stopped here for a very tasty meal. The art was moving. A good place to be
Hilary P - 4 months ago
Amazing venue! I was there for a Design Festival called FORWARD FESTIVAL, it was for two days (Thursday and Friday) and they use the whole venue for this festival and it was such a great atmosphere with different things to do in different places inside and outside the venue. There were Conferences and Workshops in three/four different stages, there were brand showing their products, there were also art and design exhibitions, also in the outside area there was music and food, and both days at night after all the conferences were over, there was a party with drink and DJ, so the whole festival was really cool in a really cool place!
Juan David Gonzalez - a year ago
Nice building built on 1956 and well kept inside and outside. It deserves to be visited also for the quietness of the restaurants in front of the river. I chose the self service area, serving a delicious pizza for euro 12.00.
Alberto Botti - 2 years ago
Directions
How to get to Haus der Kulturen der Welt by U-Bahn, S-Bahn or MetroTram
Nearest U-Bahn, S-Bahn or MetroTram Line(s): U55, S1, S2, S25, S26
Nearest U-Bahn, S-Bahn or MetroTram Station(s): U-Bundestag, S Brandenburger Tor
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Accommodations near Haus der Kulturen der Welt:
Photo Gallery
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Photo Credit: Renate R - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: Dave Hamster - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: koswalds - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: koswalds - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: koswalds - cc license via Flickr
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