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Rechenzentrum Potsdam: A Creative Hub in a Historic Setting

Explore Potsdam's Rechenzentrum: where socialist history meets contemporary art and culture in a vibrant, repurposed landmark.

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The Rechenzentrum Potsdam (RZ), once a major computer center in East Germany, has been transformed into a vibrant arts and cultural center. Located on Dortustraße, it now hosts studios, workshops, events, and exhibitions, making it a unique landmark blending socialist history with contemporary creativity.

A brief summary to Rechenzentrum Potsdam

  • Monday 1 pm-7 pm
  • Tuesday 1 pm-7 pm
  • Wednesday 1 pm-7 pm
  • Thursday 1 pm-7 pm
  • Friday 1 pm-7 pm
  • Saturday 1 pm-7 pm
  • Sunday 1 pm-7 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Rechenzentrum's website for current events and exhibitions before your visit.
  • Explore the building's unique architecture, including the historic mosaic on the first floor.
  • Visit the "Lernort Garnisonkirche" exhibition on the first floor to learn about the site's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Rechenzentrum is located in the city center of Potsdam, making it easily accessible by foot from many central locations. From the Brandenburger Tor, walk east along Brandenburger Straße, then turn right onto Dortustraße. The Rechenzentrum will be on your left, next to the Garnisonkirche Tower. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus and tram lines stop near the Rechenzentrum. Take tram lines 91, 92, or 94 to the Potsdam, Dortustr. stop, which is a 1-minute walk to the Rechenzentrum. Alternatively, take bus lines 316, 605, 692, X1, or N14 to the Potsdam, Dortustr. stop. From the Potsdam Hauptbahnhof (Central Station), take bus X15, 605, 606, or 695 to Luisenplatz, then walk a few minutes to Dortustraße. A single fare ticket within Potsdam AB costs €3.80.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Potsdam. A taxi from Potsdam Hauptbahnhof to the Rechenzentrum is a short ride, typically costing between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and the specific route. Ride-sharing services like Uber also operate in Potsdam.

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Discover more about Rechenzentrum Potsdam

The Rechenzentrum Potsdam (RZ) stands as a compelling example of adaptive reuse, transforming a structure born from socialist ideals into a modern hub for art and culture. Built between 1969 and 1971, the RZ was designed by the architecture collective Sepp Weber to serve as a major data processing center for the Potsdam region of East Germany. Its construction was part of a broader effort to implement electronic data processing across the country's industries. Located on Dortustraße, the RZ occupies a site with a complex history. It partially stands on the former location of the Garnisonkirche (Garrison Church), which was controversially demolished in 1968. Today, the RZ is situated next to the reconstructed Garrison Church Tower, creating a striking juxtaposition of architectural styles and historical narratives. After German reunification, the building was acquired by ARAG and used by the Brandenburg State Office for Statistics, among others. However, as technology advanced, the original purpose of the building became obsolete. In 2015, the RZ was repurposed into an arts and creative center, becoming Brandenburg's largest socio-creative hub. Today, the Rechenzentrum is a dynamic space that houses over 300 tenants, including artists, collectives, small businesses, and non-profit organizations. It hosts a wide array of events, including exhibitions, concerts, workshops, and courses. Visitors can explore the building's artistic corridors, a food-sharing space, and a green inner courtyard. The building also features the mosaic "Man Conquers the Cosmos" by Fritz Eisel, a protected monument that reflects the socialist belief in progress.

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