On September 14, 1869 —the 100th birthday of the naturalist Alexander von Humboldt, after whom the park is named—construction began in Berlin’s Wedding district on a completely new kind of recreational park. Landscape architect Gustav Meyer created Humboldthain, a green oasis intended to provide fresh air for working-class families. It took seven years to complete the sprawling complex, which today ranks among Berlin’s most popular parks.
The massive anti-aircraft towers and the secret beneath the park
In 1941 and 1942, the Nazi regime dramatically altered the park’s appearance. Forced laborers built a 42-meter-high gun turret and an accompanying control tower in Humboldthain. The meter-thick reinforced concrete walls served not only for air defense; 15,000 civilians sought refuge here during bombing raids.
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After the war ended, the Allies tried in vain to completely demolish the colossal structure. Eventually, the ruins were filled in with approximately 1.4 million cubic meters of rubble, creating two artificial mounds. Beneath the green hill, however, a fascinating world still lies hidden. The Berliner Unterwelten association offers guided tours through three exposed levels of the old bunker system.
Lush nature, summer days, and alpine climbing
Although the scars of history remain visible, Humboldthain presents itself today as remarkably diverse. The Italian-style rose garden, featuring over 70 varieties, invites visitors to linger. Sporty visitors make use of the steep north face of the former anti-aircraft tower, which has been approved as a climbing wall by the German Alpine Club.
The Humboldthain Summer Pool promises relief from the heat on hot days with its water park featuring 50-meter lanes. Those who venture up to the observation deck are rewarded with a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view over the rooftops of Berlin.
The best way to get to Humboldthain is by public transit. Take it easy and travel there by taking the Ringbahn (S41/S42) or S-Bahn lines S1, S2, or S25 to the Gesundbrunnen or Humboldthain station.
📍 Location: Humboldthain Public Park
🏠 Address: Brunnenstraße, 13357 Berlin
🎟️ Admission: Park free to the public (bunker tours starting at €16)
⏰ Hours: Open 24 hours a day, year-round
