Zumthor Berlin Topography of Terror is a project by architect Peter Zumthor that has been commissioned to rebuild the site of the former Gestapo and SS headquarters in Berlin. The site is a powerful reminder of the Nazi terror that plagued Germany during the Second World War, and Zumthor’s design seeks to honor the memory of the victims and create a space for contemplation and reflection. The project is currently under construction, with the opening expected in 2021.
Background
The Berlin Topography of Terror was first opened in 2010 as a museum and memorial to the victims of Nazi terror. The original building was destroyed during World War II and the site was used as a public park until the 1990s. Since then, the site has been the focus of several redevelopment plans, all of which have been unsuccessful. In 2016, the Berlin Senate commissioned the Swiss architect Peter Zumthor to develop a design for the site.
Design
Zumthor’s design for the site seeks to create a space for contemplation and reflection on the events that took place there during the Nazi regime. The design features a series of walkways and pathways that are designed to evoke the feeling of a labyrinth, as well as a number of sculptures and installations that explore the history of the site. The design also includes a memorial hall, a library, and a café.
Features
The memorial hall will be the centerpiece of the project and will feature a series of plaques and sculptures that honor the victims of the Nazi terror. The library will contain books, documents, and other materials related to the history of the site, while the café will provide a space for visitors to relax and reflect on the events that took place there.
Walkways
The project includes several walkways that are designed to evoke the feeling of a labyrinth. These walkways will be lined with trees and shrubs and will feature several sculptures and installations that explore the history of the site. The pathways will also be illuminated at night, providing a peaceful atmosphere for contemplation.
Sculptures
The project will feature several sculptures and installations that explore the history of the site. These sculptures will be created by both local and international artists and will be designed to evoke a sense of reflection and contemplation. The sculptures will be accompanied by plaques that provide information about the events that took place there during the Nazi regime.
Conclusion
The Zumthor Berlin Topography of Terror project is an ambitious and important endeavor that seeks to honor the memory of the victims of Nazi terror and create a space for contemplation and reflection. The project is currently under construction, with the opening expected in 2021. The design includes a series of walkways and pathways, sculptures and installations, a memorial hall, a library, and a café.
Useful Resources
- Berlin Topography of Terror: https://www.topographie.de/en/
- Peter Zumthor: https://www.zumthor.com/