The TV Tower located on Alexanderplatz serves as Berlin’s most visible landmark and has the title of being the highest skyscraper in Germany. The steel sphere has an observation deck and a high-quality restaurant.
The TV tower’s origin and construction
The TV Tower is situated within the confines of the old East Berlin. The German Democratic Republic required a facility capable of broadcasting throughout the whole nation, necessitating the construction of a substantial transmission tower. Initially, there were plans to construct a tower in the Müggelberge hills. However, it was discovered that the tower would present a significant risk to the adjacent Schönefeld Airport. Consequently, Walter Ulbricht, the chairman of the Socialist party, made the decision to construct the TV tower at Alexanderplatz. Construction started in the same year, 1964. The TV tower commenced operations in October 1969 following a four-year building period.
Breathtaking panoramas from the summit
The TV Tower on Alexanderplatz is an essential attraction for visitors to Berlin. Ultimately, the perspective from the summit is unparalleled: in favorable conditions, one may observe a distance of up to 80 kilometers. The observation platform is situated at an elevation of 203 meters. There is a restaurant located on the floor above. If you are able to secure a window seat at this establishment (reservation strongly advised), you will have the opportunity to see Berlin from any vantage point while indulging in a high-quality culinary experience.
An enduring myth surrounding the renowned TV Tower is that despite its purpose of showcasing technological progress, it was destined to suffer from a tragic twist of fate. The GDR officials were embarrassed by the steel sphere’s reflection, which formed a colossal cross. Consequently, a widely known joke, which the Socialist administration did not find amusing, suggested that the Pope’s actions were a kind of retaliation against the secular Socialist East Germany for its decision to eliminate crucifixes from churches..