Berlin - Palace of the Republic Palast der Republik

 
Dominating the east side of Marx-Engels-Platz in Berlin stands the Palace of the Republic, built in 1973-76. When completed it became an East German prestige symbol and was given the hardly flattering popular nickname of "Palazzo Protzi."

The palace, with its glass-covered exterior, is 180 m/590ft long and 85 m/280ft wide. The leading architect was Heinz Graffunder.

Must-see attractions nearby:
It was the seat of the East German Parliament (assembly hall and conference rooms) and was used to entertain foreign representatives. It was intended that, in future, the Palace of the Republic would be used as a culture center offering a broad spectrum of facilities. However, like a lot of buildings in the 1970s, asbestos material was used in its construction and this led to its being closed in September of 1990 for health reasons. No decision has yet been made on what to do with it. The majority appears to be in favor of pulling it down and rebuilding the Berlin City Palace in its place.

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