State Parliament with the historic façade of the former City Palace
Address: Brandenburg State Parliament, Alter Markt 1, 14467 Potsdam | Built: 2011 to 2013 | Architectural style: Frederickian Rococo
The Potsdam City Palace was one of the most magnificent residences in Europe and the focal point for the most important political decisions in German history. Frederick the Great’s study was the place where the map of Europe was redrawn in the 18th century. The impetus for Prussia’s rise in the 19th century under the Habsburg rule has its roots in the Potsdam Palace.
The old City Palace in Potsdam no longer exists, however, because Walter Ulbricht had the burned-out building demolished between 1959 and 1960, and everything was razed to the ground. The current building, which has housed the Brandenburg State Parliament since 2014, was built between 2011 and 2013. The new building is a reconstruction of the façade of the old Potsdam City Palace and features unique details designed by Georg Wenzeslaus von Knobelsdorff. New and old blend together in this building in an extraordinary way.
Directions and Location of the Potsdam Landmark
The Potsdam City Palace, or rather the State Parliament building, is quite easy to find, as it is located directly on the Old Market Square, opposite St. Nicholas Church, and its impressive architecture immediately catches the eye. No matter which side you approach the City Palace from, the scale of the building quickly becomes apparent.
The area is bordered by Alter Markt and Humboldtstraße. Other streets bordering the area are Bundesstraße 2 and Anna-Zielenziger-Straße. Anyone driving through Potsdam on the B1 highway cannot miss the imposing Potsdam City Palace.
Opening Hours and Tours
The inner courtyard and foyer, which house an interactive building model, the cafeteria and canteen, the roof terrace, and the Knobelsdorff Staircase, are open to the public during normal business hours Monday to Friday without prior registration. This also applies to the inner courtyard of the Potsdam City Palace. However, there are specific opening hours:
Potsdam City Palace Opening Hours
State Parliament Building:
Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Inner Courtyard:
Open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The Potsdam City Palace is closed on public holidays.
To ensure everyone has access, all public areas are wheelchair accessible. There are also orientation aids for the visually and hearing impaired. Anyone wishing to visit the cafeteria and canteen must adhere to the access rules and opening hours.
Admission Prices for the Potsdam City Palace
There is no admission fee to visit the Potsdam City Palace.
Guided Tours of the Potsdam City Palace
Guided tours of the Potsdam City Palace are offered to visit the State Parliament located there. There are special tours for individuals and for small groups of up to 10 people, during which interested parties are guided through the building for one hour.
Tours of the Potsdam City Palace are usually held twice a month from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. There are no tours of the Potsdam City Palace on plenary days or during special parliamentary events.
You should register for a tour in advance. This is easily done via the official website, under Offers for Tours and Participation in Sessions, and can be done up to three months in advance.
Note: Tours can also be canceled. This happens if fewer than five people have registered for a tour.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about the Potsdam City Palace
What is the Potsdam City Palace?
The Potsdam City Palace was an important residence of the Brandenburg electors and Prussian kings. It was built in the Baroque style in the 17th century. Parts of the palace were destroyed in World War II and today only remain as ruins. Since 2014, the building has served as the seat of the Brandenburg State Parliament.
When was the City Palace in Potsdam built?
The Potsdam City Palace was built in the 17th century. Construction began in 1662 under the reign of Elector Frederick William of Brandenburg, also known as the Great Elector, and was later continued by his son, Elector Frederick III, who later became known as King Frederick I of Prussia.
Potsdam City Palace – Special Features and Interesting Facts
The Potsdam City Palace may look like a palace from the outside – but appearances can be deceiving. And the building isn’t old either. Rather, it’s a new building. The idea behind the new construction was to close the gap in the center of Potsdam. Furthermore, the architecture of the new building was to be based on the historic Potsdam City Palace.
In 1999, the city assembly decided that the center of Potsdam was now a redevelopment area. The goal of the decision was to construct a new building that would match the layout of the historic Potsdam City Palace by redeveloping the former palace grounds.
Donations were initially used to finance the reconstruction of the Fortuna Portal. The groundbreaking ceremony took place in September 2000, and not only traditional construction techniques but also original parts that had been preserved were used for the reconstruction. The Fortuna Portal was ceremoniously inaugurated on October 12, 2002. On May 20, 2005, the State Parliament passed a resolution to build a new parliament building.
This building was to be constructed according to the historical plans of the former Potsdam City Palace, with some modifications. This idea was very well received by the citizens of Potsdam. Thus, after preparatory archaeological investigations, further planning for a new state parliament building in the style of the old Potsdam City Palace could begin. A tender for the construction project was launched.
In September 2009, the project contract was signed with the Zech Facility Management Group, which was awarded the contract for the planning, construction, financing, and operation of the state parliament building for 30 years. On February 16, 2011, the foundation stone for the new Potsdam City Palace was laid. On October 10, 2013, the completed building was handed over to the Brandenburg State Parliament.
The fascinating thing about this building are the numerous elements that were incorporated into the new building from the plans of Georg Wenzeslaus Knobeldorff, thus giving the building a historical character, even though the interior has been adapted to the new needs.
Historical Facts and History of the Potsdam City Palace
The City Palace in Potsdam, originally built between 1747 and 1750 according to plans by Georg Wenzeslaus Knobelsdorff for Elector Frederick William in the Frederickian Rococo style, was the beginning of Potsdam’s extraordinary cityscape. It brought together what belongs together: unique palaces and stunning gardens, blending together like a work of art in a charming landscape.
Not only was history written in the Potsdam City Palace like no other building, but many renowned personalities also came to visit. Potsdam Palace even has a connection to the history of the United States of America. Frederick the Great was the first European power to recognize the independence of the USA.
The old Potsdam City Palace is considered an epochal monument to European high culture in architectural terms. The building, with its timeless beauty and numerous sculptures, admonished those in power to exercise moderation and not be guided by false ideologies. It was also a call to incorporate knowledge of human nature into education.
The history of the Potsdam City Palace actually begins with the decision of Elector Frederick William. In 1660, he began to build a residence for his son and successor, the first King of Prussia. The Fortuna Portal, considered a unique structure in Germany, was built in the palace courtyard in 1700.
The Potsdam City Palace received its final appearance between 1744 and 1753 based on designs by Georg Wenzeslaus von Knobelsdorff, with the interiors in the Frederickian Rococo architectural style representing a particular highlight.
The Potsdam City Palace has repeatedly been the focal point of the Prussian state throughout history. Frederick the Great ruled from there during the winter months. The palace was also inhabited by Wilhelm III and Queen Louise. After 1918, it became a museum palace and was used for meetings of the city council. Departments of the city administration were also located in the palace, and there were even official apartments.
The bombing of Potsdam on April 14, 1945, caused the City Palace to fall victim to a fire. Although some structurally sound parts of the building survived, the City Palace was ultimately razed to the ground despite plans for reconstruction.
Through demolition, the Politburo in East Berlin wanted to erase all memories of Prussian history from people’s minds forever. Demolition of the old City Palace began in 1959. Today, the State Parliament building closes the hole that had gaped for many years on the Alter Markt (Old Market Square), impressively incorporating the architectural style of the old Potsdam City Palace.
Sights and attractions in the immediate vicinity of Potsdam Palace
Those exploring the area from Potsdam City Palace can discover numerous great photo opportunities, sculptures, architectural monuments, and sights. You only have to look around a little, and sights worth seeing and interesting things will immediately catch your eye.
Steubenplatz is not far from Potsdam City Palace. Here, visitors will encounter a special relic from times long past. There stands the Ringer Colonnade, which formed the northern boundary of the Lustgarten (Pleasure Garden).
Gradually, everything destroyed in World War II in Potsdam’s Alter Markt square was rebuilt. If you take a look around, you’ll discover not only a unique architectural ensemble, but also the obelisk, which is made of red marble.
The Barberini Museum, at Humboldtstrasse 5-6, is also just a few meters from the palace. There, art lovers can admire Impressionist paintings and view international collections.
A special sculpture is located at Schlossstrasse 9A. The bronze statue depicts Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben, who was sent to the New World by Frederick the Great. Without him, the American Revolutionary War would likely have turned out differently. The statue is a replica of the one located in Lafayette Park in Washington.
Those seeking a beautiful spot in the sun and wanting to immerse themselves in the spirit of antiquity will find such a place at the Neptune Basin. The basin contains artistic sculptures depicting Neptune and the nymphs. The fountain complex is located in the Lustgarten.
Cafés and Restaurants Near Potsdam Palace
If you’d like to relax and enjoy a bit of comfort, you can indulge in culinary delights and coffee specialties at the restaurants and cafés near Potsdam City Palace. There’s also a cafeteria and canteen directly within the Potsdam City Palace.
Cafè Central
Located on the Old Market Square, Café Central has a lovely outdoor terrace, perfect for relaxing and enjoying yourself when the weather’s nice. Not only does it serve delicious cakes and coffee specialties, but it also offers a great view of the nearby historic buildings.
Address: Cafè Central, Am Alten Markt 9
Unscheinbar
If you’re looking for a delicious cocktail, beer, or wine in the evening, Unscheinbar is the place to be. The cozy bar with dim lighting opens at 7 p.m. and offers delicious drinks as well as regular live music and DJs. This is a very pleasant way to end the evening after a stroll around the Potsdam City Palace.
Address: Unscheinbar, Friedrich-Ebert-Straße 118
Restaurant kochZimmer
For culinary delights with artfully prepared dishes from creative German cuisine, guests can indulge in the kochZimmer restaurant at Am Neuen Markt. Delicious meat and fish dishes are served in a stylish ambiance with an inner courtyard, along with a 6- or 7-course menu upon request. The menu also includes an excellent selection of wines.
Address: Restaurant kochZimmer, Am Neuen Markt 10
Genusswerkstadt Potsdam
Upscale Italian cuisine is served to guests at the Genusswerkstatt Potsdam at Breite Straße 1A. Delicious antipasti, pasta, risottos, and a wide selection of drinks are available. The restaurant is located in the former orangery of the Potsdam City Palace, where guests can sit comfortably.
Address: Genusswerkstadt Potsdam, Breite Straße 1A
Restaurant El Puerto
Located on the Lange Brücke (Long Bridge), Restaurant El Puerto features a beautiful outdoor terrace where you can enjoy Spanish delicacies under palm trees overlooking the harbor. In addition to tapas and delicious paella, the menu also includes other tasty meat, fish, and other main dishes from Spanish cuisine. There is also an extensive drinks list.
Address: Restaurant El Puerto, Lange Brücke 6