Tucked away on Potsdam’s Telegrafenberg, the Einstein Tower stands majestically. Originally built to prove Albert Einstein’s theory of relativity , the observatory is now a magnet for anyone who loves architecture, science, and history .
By the way: Did you know that Yoda’s face from Star Wars is based on a combination of makeup artist Stuart Freeborn and Albert Einstein’s face? If you’re in the mood for more Disney, check this out.
The Einstein Tower: An Expressionist Masterpiece in the Name of Research
The tower was designed between 1919 and 1921 by architect Erich Mendelsohn. Mendelsohn’s visionary design broke completely with the strict, angular architectural styles of his time and instead embraced flowing, organic forms.
Originally, the curved observatory was supposed to be cast in concrete. But at the time, that posed an enormous engineering challenge. As a result, part of the facade is secretly made of plastered brickwork. (Don’t worry, Erich—we won’t tell anyone!)
When Einstein visited the tower after its completion, Erich Mendelsohn is said to have nervously awaited the physicist’s verdict. After a thorough examination, Einstein summed up his opinion of the unusual architectural style with just a single word: “Organic!”
How the Proof of the Theory of Relativity (For Now) Failed
Not only does the tower look amazing, but it also served a concrete purpose. Astronomers wanted to use it to definitively prove Einstein’s theory of relativity by measuring the predicted redshift of sunlight in the Sun’s gravitational field.
The centerpiece of the observatory is a 14-meter-long spectrograph that extends all the way down to the basement. A system of mirrors in the dome captures sunlight and directs it downward. There, the light is broken down into its spectral colors to measure the redshift in the Sun’s gravitational field.
But the mission failed. The highly sensitive measuring instruments were so disrupted by atmospheric disturbances and solar flares that clear proof simply could not be provided.
Even though the first major attempt failed, research is still conducted here today. The Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics Potsdam uses the tower for solar research and education. To this day, they still utilize the sophisticated technology described above within the tower.
What Awaits You Today at and Inside the Einstein Tower
You can enter the outdoor grounds for free during the day and take in the impressive structure from all sides. However, if you want to take a look at the optical laboratories and the lens system inside, you’ll need to register in advance for one of the monthly guided tours offered by the Urania Association of Potsdam.
🚗 By car, take the A115 to the Potsdam-Babelsberg exit, follow Nuthestraße toward “Wissenschaftspark Albert Einstein,” and park there near the gate.
🚇 By public transit, take the RE1 or S7 to Potsdam Central Station and from there take bus 691 to the final stop, Telegrafenberg.
📍 Albert Einstein Science Park, Telegrafenberg, Potsdam
📆 Outdoor viewing available anytime during the day; guided tours of the interior by appointment
⏳ About 45 minutes for a walk around the grounds; guided tours last 90 minutes
💵 Outdoor area free; guided tours normally cost €12
ℹ️ More info and guided tours
