Berlin is a city in which history is literally inscribed in the urban landscape. The ruins, restored buildings and Cold War landmarks are reminiscent of the past. But there is one building that stands out especially. It's Der Hochbunker an der Pallasstraße <TAG1> is an above-ground bunker that survived the Second World War and became the foundation for a multi-story residential building. It is one of the most amazing architectural curiosities of the German capital.
History of the bunker
The bunker on the Pallasstraße was erected in 1943 during World War II. Its purpose was clear: to protect the inhabitants of Berlin from massive Allied bombing. Its walls, up to 3 meters thick, provided reliable shelter for hundreds of people.
After the end of the war, the problem arose: what to do with this huge concrete community? The destruction of such an object would require significant financial costs and technological solutions, which did not exist then. The bunker stood idle until in 1977 there was a non-standard solution: not to demolish it, but simply... to build it into a residential complex.
House on a bunker: how is it possible?
At first glance, a modern residential building at Pallasstraße 24 looks common until you pay attention to the lower part. The bulky gray concrete structure under it – is the same Hochbunker. It looks as if the high-rise building just grew on its basis. The building consists of 15 floors and is part of a large residential complex, and the bunker serves as a kind of foundation. An architectural solution that seems unreal has actually become a forced necessity.
Life next to the ghost of the past
Berliners treat this building differently. For some, she is a historical witness and a reminder of the tragic past, for others – it is just an uncomfortable concrete monster that shadows the yard. Despite this, it remains part of the urban landscape and a kind of symbol of how the city changes, not forgetting its history.
Today, the bunker is partially used by – in particular for excursions. Its walls have preserved the memory of the war, and although most of the interior spaces are closed, some can be visited to experience the atmosphere of the war years.
The future of Hochbunker: save or demolish?
Discussions occasionally break out in Berlin about the future of this structure. Some believe that the bunker should be preserved as a historic site, while others suggest that it be dismantled or re-equipped. Given that demolition would cost millions of euros, it will most likely remain where it is for decades to come.
The bunker on Pallasstraße – is not just a building artifact, but a symbol of adaptation, resilience and historical memory. He reminds that the city is developing, changing, but never forgets its past. Interestingly, forests live right next to this structure, adding even more contrast to this unique place.
