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Contents
Berlin TV Tower History | An icon of reunification in post-Cold War Berlin
Berlin TV Tower history explained
Construction begins
1965
After the initial planning was finalized, the construction of the Berlin TV Tower began in August 1945. Its location at the historic heart of the city meant that many older structures had to be demolished. The tower’s design came from renowned architect Hermann Henselmann. Many components were imported from West Germany, increasing construction costs and far exceeding the limit of the budget. The total cost of construction of the tower amounted to over €132 million.
Inauguration of the Berlin TV Tower
1969
The Berlin TV Tower was officially inaugurated on 3rd October 1969, marking the 20th anniversary of the German Democratic Republic (East Germany). It was a celebrated affair, with politician Walter Ulbricht, his wife Lotte Ulbricht, and several other high-ranking officials in attendance. The guests of honor gave the starting signal for DFF 2, which was Germany’s second state channel, paving the way for the era of colour television in the country.
Broadcasting from the tower begins
1970
The Berlin TV Tower began transmitting radio signals in February 1970, when 5 FM programs were broadcast. The first television program broadcast followed in April 1970. Its strategic location and height ensured signal reliability and widespread coverage across the city and beyond. In the years after the reunification of Germany in 1990, the tower’s equipment and infrastructure were modernized and expanded to adapt to digital broadcasting technologies.
Sky-high dining at the restaurant opens to the public
1972
In 1972, the Sphere, a restaurant and bar with seating for over 1,000 people, was inaugurated at the Berlin TV Tower. As Germany’s highest restaurant, it offers splendid panoramic views of the city. The restaurant rotates on its axis, offering a unique revolving experience and changing views every minute as you dine. This restaurant is open from breakfast to dinner, allowing visitors to enjoy the views throughout the day.
The Berlin TV Tower receives its 50 millionth visitor
2011
Aside from its function as a broadcasting platform, the Berlin TV Tower has emerged as a landmark tourist attraction and one of the most distinctive sights on the city’s skyline. During the first 3 years after its inauguration, as many as 4 million people visited the structure. On 14th June 2011, more than 40 years after it was constructed, the tower hit a landmark of 50 million visitors.
Berlin TV Tower today
Ever since its completion and inauguration in 1969, the Berlin TV Tower has continued to function as a broadcasting facility. However, as the tallest building in the country, it has also become one of Berlin’s most popular tourist attractions, providing exceptional bird’s eye views from its observation deck. Every year, it attracts over 1 million visitors from around the globe, who come not only to see the views but also to dine at the city’s highest restaurant and bar and to enjoy the virtual reality experience that provides a unique glimpse into its history and construction.
Today, Fernsehturm Berlin is a popular icon appearing on souvenirs and tourism merchandise. It has become a symbol of a reunified Berlin, representing its past as well as its future.
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Frequently asked questions about the Berlin TV Tower's history
What is the historical significance of the Berlin TV Tower?
The Berlin TV Tower was constructed by the government of East Germany during the height of the Cold War era. It was intended to demonstrate the strength and technological advancement of the socialist German Democratic Republic (GDR). Following the reunification of Germany in 1990, it gained significance as a symbol of the two halves rejoining into a single democratic country.
How many years did it take to build the Berlin TV Tower?
It took 4 years to build the Berlin TV Tower, starting in 1965 and concluding in 1969.
Who built the Berlin TV Tower?
The Berlin TV Tower was constructed by a team of architects and engineers led by Hermann Henselmann, Jorg Streitparth, and Fritz Dieter.
What is the architectural style of the Berlin TV Tower?
The architecture of the Berlin TV Tower is often classified as a combination of modernist and futuristic design. The Space Race between the United States and Soviet Russia as well as Soviet Russia’s Sputnik satellite provided much of the inspiration for its design and its interiors.
