Ernst-Thälmann-Park: A Socialist-Era Green Space
Explore a unique Berlin park with socialist-era monuments, green spaces, and a planetarium, offering a blend of history and recreation.
Ernst-Thälmann-Park, situated in the heart of Prenzlauer Berg, is a unique urban park with a rich history. The park was created in 1986 on the grounds of a former municipal gasworks, which operated from 1874 until its closure in 1981. In preparation for Berlin's 750th anniversary, the East German government transformed the area into an "inhabited park," featuring residential buildings, cultural facilities, and a memorial to Ernst Thälmann, the former leader of the German Communist Party. The park's design reflects socialist urban planning, with large apartment blocks surrounding open green spaces. The Ernst Thälmann Monument, created by Soviet sculptor Lev Kerbel, stands as a prominent landmark within the park. While some political plaques were removed after reunification, the monument remains a protected landmark and a subject of ongoing debate about its historical significance. Today, Ernst-Thälmann-Park offers a variety of attractions for visitors. The Zeiss Major Planetarium, located on the park's edge, is a modern science theater. The park itself provides ample space for recreation, with playgrounds, walking paths, and a small lake. Despite its complex history, Ernst-Thälmann-Park serves as a green oasis in the densely populated Prenzlauer Berg district, offering a space for relaxation, recreation, and reflection.
Local tips
- Visit the Zeiss Major Planetarium for an immersive science and astronomy experience.
- Explore the park's walking paths and enjoy a picnic on the sprawling lawns.
- Take a moment to reflect on the history of the Ernst Thälmann Monument and its significance in East German history.
A brief summary to Ernst-Thälmann- Park
- Lilli-Henoch-Straße, Berlin, Pankow, 10405, DE
- +4930902950
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Public Transport
Ernst-Thälmann-Park is accessible via Berlin's extensive public transport network. Take the U2 subway line to the Eberswalder Straße station or the M10 or M4 tram to Prenzlauer Allee/Danziger Straße. Several bus lines also stop near the park, including the 142, 156, and 200. A single fare for zones A and B is €3.80. A short trip ticket, valid for three stops on the S-Bahn or U-Bahn, or six stops on buses and trams, costs €2.60.
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Walking
From the S Greifswalder Straße station, walk west along Greifswalder Straße, then turn left onto Danziger Straße. The park will be on your right. The walk is approximately 7 minutes. From Prenzlauer Allee, walk along Prenzlauer Allee until you reach the Zeiss Major Planetarium, the park is located behind the planetarium.
