Hohenschönhausen between Architectural History, Remembrance and Lake Orankesee

Hohenschönhausen appeals to travelers interested in architectural history, places of remembrance and activities by the water. The former Haus Lemke, the Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial and the Orankesee lido represent different sides of the area. Your planned priorities can help guide your choice of accommodation: historic sites, a longer walking tour or time by the water.

Architectural History and Culture

The former Haus Lemke was built in 1932/33 by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe as a home for Karl and Martha Lemke. The name Mies van der Rohe also appears in the Mies van der Rohe House, an exhibition space for contemporary art in Alt-Hohenschönhausen. The two houses thus offer different perspectives: the history of a home at one, contemporary art at the other.

The Taborkirche is also part of the area’s architectural history. It is one of the oldest buildings in Hohenschönhausen and is believed to date back to the 13th century. The former manor house, now Bürgerschloss Hohenschönhausen, adds to the cultural offering with a wide range of exhibitions and events hosted by a nonprofit association. In terms of their history, the buildings range from the Taborkirche, believed to date back to the 13th century, to Haus Lemke, built in 1932/33.

Memorial Site and Planning Your Visit

The Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial commemorates the former Stasi prison. Its offerings include guided tours, the exhibitions “Imprisonment in Hohenschönhausen” and “In Forced Community,” as well as a visitor cafeteria. The former prison can only be visited as part of a guided tour. The memorial is accessible by tram lines M5, M6 and 16, as well as by bus 256. If you plan to visit, remember that a guided tour is required to see the former prison.

Walking and Spending Time at Lake Orankesee

There are various ways to go for a walk and get some exercise outdoors. Outside the leisure pool at Lake Orankesee, a 1.3-kilometer lakeside path is ideal for walking or jogging. Tour 5: Alt-Hohenschönhausen is longer at 5.5 kilometers and takes about two hours on foot. You can choose between a lakeside path and a longer route through the area; an approximate time is also provided for the tour.

The Orankesee lido in Alt-Hohenschönhausen has a sandy beach and a green sunbathing lawn. Its facilities also include a 52-meter water slide, a playground, table tennis tables and a beach volleyball court. A visit to the lido offers a different focus from the architectural and memorial sites. As seasonal operating arrangements may change, check the latest conditions before planning your visit.

Then compare the location of the specific accommodation with the places you plan to visit.

Discover More Destinations

Ruhlsdorf, Biesdorf, Wannsee, Zehlendorf, Karlshorst, Hellersdorf, Altglienicke, Grünau.

For the main travel overview: Berlin.