The Joseph Haydn Palais is located at Joseph-Haydn-Straße 1 in Berlin, next to the Tiergarten S-Bahn station. This classical building is of great historical and architectural value. Built between 1886 and 1887, it was designed by renowned architects Hermann Ende and Wilhelm Böckmann and embodies the elegance and timeless charm of the late classical style. Remarkably, the building survived the Second World War and the attic was rebuilt after the war, with some remnants deliberately preserved as a poignant reminder for future generations.
One of the most striking features of the building is its striking semi-oval iron spiral staircase. Approximately twenty metres high, it is centrally located and leads directly to a skylight on the top floor. Although there are rumours that the staircase was designed by the famous French engineer Gustav Eiffel, this claim cannot be confirmed. Nonetheless, the rumour adds a touch of mystery to the Joseph Haydn Palais, which adds to its appeal.
The preservation of the Joseph Haydn Palais is largely due to the efforts of the artist Ben Wagin and his friends. In the mid-1950s, when the building was threatened with demolition to make way for new developments in the Hansaviertel, Ben Wagin and his friends took a bold stand to protect it. At the time, Berlin was undergoing major reconstruction, with many historic buildings being replaced by modern architecture.
This was Ben Wagin’s home before his death and his artwork can still be seen on the walls. He also created a green space in front of the house. In contrast to the modern buildings around it, this white building stands out with particular elegance. Today, the Joseph Haydn Palais is not only a witness to history, but also a treasure of Berlin’s classical architecture, showcasing the beauty of this architectural era.
