Czech Embassy and Czech Centre Berlin
An architectural icon of Berlin modernism
For the new Czech Embassy and Czech Centre Berlin, Věra Machoninová and Vladimír Machonin designed a futuristic architecture reminiscent of a space shuttle in 1972. Since the building's opening in 1978, it has also been known as the "Starship Enterprise".
The exterior is dominated by granite façades with large, tinted windows. Inside, colours, materials and design dominate in the style of the 1970s.
Brutalism as an architectural style of the modern age
Particularly striking: the façade of granite-clad concrete as well as the angled and darkly mirrored window bands, which still lend the building an exceptionally futuristic style in their composition. Custom-made furniture was designed to furnish the embassy at the time. Most of it still exists and reflects the style of the 1970s - as it did when it was reopened.
The striking building served as the ČSSR's embassy in East Berlin in the 1970s.
Today, the building with the Czech Embassy and Czech Centre belongs to a network of a total of 22 Czech Centres worldwide. Together they form an active platform for connecting Czech ways of life with local cultures. The focus is always on intercultural exchange between the different poles.
The centres act as a hub of communication and present the Czech Republic as a modern and dynamic country. On the one hand, with a long cultural tradition and, on the other, with great creative potential for the future.
What does the Czech Centre in Berlin have to offer?
The Czech Centre Berlin has a gallery in a multifunctional space with changing exhibitions. The programme focuses on contemporary art, music, documentary film, literature, design and architecture. The centre also offers Czech language courses at various levels as well as certified language examinations. Two classrooms and various offices are available for this purpose.
Where in Berlin can I find the Czech Centre?
Since September 2012, the Czech Centre has been located at Wilhelmstraße 44, in the Berlin-Mitte district. Visitors enter the building via the Mohrenstraße entrance.
