{"id":16609,"date":"2025-04-25T13:05:26","date_gmt":"2025-04-25T11:05:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/svjmedia.nl\/internationaljournalism\/?p=16609"},"modified":"2025-06-19T14:50:55","modified_gmt":"2025-06-19T12:50:55","slug":"granite-over-green-has-berlins-most-historic-square-lost-more-than-just-trees","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/svjmedia.nl\/internationaljournalism\/16609\/granite-over-green-has-berlins-most-historic-square-lost-more-than-just-trees\/","title":{"rendered":"Granite Over Green: Has Berlin\u2019s Most Historic Square Lost More Than Just Trees?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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The Gendarmenmarkt, a historic square in the centre of Berlin, has reopened after two years of renovations. However, the redesign has sparked disagreement across the city, with tourists and residents alike voicing frustration over the loss of shade and greenery. The once-beloved location is now being called a \u201cstone desert\u201d by many, as the trees that once lined the square and provided much-needed shade have been removed. Online critiques voice concern that the square has lost its inviting charm, becoming more of a monument than a functional public space. So, has the renovation influenced the livability of the Gendarmenmarkt?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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A Square of Significance<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Built in the 17th century, the Gendarmenmarkt is home to the German Cathedral, the French Cathedral, and the Konzerthaus, together forming one of Berlin\u2019s most striking architectural ensembles. The square\u2019s rich and eventful history is marked in its very structure. Each era has left behind its architectural imprint, reflecting the city\u2019s evolving cultural and political landscape. Urban researcher Felix Bentlin of TU Berlin notes that Gendarmenmarkt has long served as a model of city planning. \u201cIt was part of a vision for urban expansion,\u201d he says. Today, it draws over a million tourists each year.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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What Is Gr\u00fcn Berlin?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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In October 2022, renovations began at Gendarmenmarkt, one of Berlin\u2019s most iconic squares. The project was led by Gr\u00fcn Berlin, a state-owned organization that specializes in sustainable urban development, often coordinating large-scale infrastructure projects for parks and cultural sites.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Costing \u20ac22 million, the two-year effort aimed to restore the square\u2019s historic character, drawing inspiration from its GDR-era layout. The redesigned square now features a more open, uniform stone surface and updated infrastructure.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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According to Gr\u00fcn Berlin, the project was meant to improve accessibility, support cultural events, and preserve the site\u2019s architectural heritage. Still, as urban design researcher Bentlin notes, \u201cWhat\u2019s important is what we don\u2019t see,\u201d referring to the underfloor infrastructure that supports long-term climate adaptation. These upgrades, he adds, are \u201cpart of adapting the space for the future.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Shade vs. Stone<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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The renovations were intended to make the square more resilient to climate change and improve urban life over time. However, for many visitors, the immediate effects raise questions about the square\u2019s livability. Christina and Henry, tourists from the United States, noted, \u201cIt\u2019s so hot with all the concrete,\u201d adding, \u201cIt\u2019s sad not to see more green in a city like Berlin.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Dr. Bentlin acknowledges the discomfort visitors feel but encourages a broader view. He suggests critics consider the square\u2019s \u201cevolving role over centuries,\u201d emphasizing the \u201cimportance of layered history, public use, and the modern infrastructure\u201d needed to support events. \u201cIt\u2019s not just a park; it\u2019s a square,\u201d he says. Maintaining this balance, he argues, is essential for the square\u2019s long-term adaptability, serving both Berliners and millions of visitors.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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What Locals Are Saying<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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In contrast, Berlin-based students Henry and Oliver, taking a break between university classes near Friedrichstra\u00dfe, shared their frustrations. \u201cIt\u2019s quite warm, right?\u201d Henry noted, gesturing at the sun-soaked pavement. Oliver added, \u201cIt\u2019s only going to be worse in July or August.\u201d The lack of trees, they said, makes the square uncomfortable during warmer months. \u201cWhy didn\u2019t they just put more trees here?\u201d Oliver asked. \u201cIt looks better, it\u2019s nicer.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Their remarks reflect a growing concern among locals that the redesign prioritizes aesthetics over function. While tourists may appreciate the open layout, those who use the space daily feel that comfort and usability have been overlooked.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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A Balancing Act<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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The renovation of Gendarmenmarkt represents a cultural balancing act: preserving the square\u2019s historic charm while adapting it for the future. Dr. Bentlin stresses the importance of future-proofing public spaces, noting that long-term benefits, like better infrastructure and event support, often take time to show their value. But for Berliners and visitors, day-to-day experience matters just as much.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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The contrast is clear. While tourists admire the architectural clarity and clean layout, locals are asking for shade, comfort, and community. \u201cAll the heat just reflects from the concrete,\u201d Henry said. It\u2019s a square with centuries of history, but one that some feel is missing a basic element of public life: shelter from the sun.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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A<\/strong>dapt and Survive<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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The renovation of the Gendarmenmarkt leaves a lingering question: in adapting a historic square for the future, has something essential been overlooked? While the space is now more resilient and event-ready, its everyday functionality feels less certain. The balance between preserving architectural heritage and creating a place where people want to linger remains delicate. In the end, it\u2019s not only about what\u2019s been restored, but what\u2019s no longer there to invite people to stay.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n