Berlin's Gendarmenmarkt Reopens After Two-Year Renovation

The redesign, inspired by its DDR-era appearance, faces criticism for limited greenery, while officials emphasize historical and functional priorities.

The Gendarmenmarkt, a historic Berlin square, has reopened following a two-year renovation involving 14,000 square meters of restored natural stone paving and a five-kilometer underground utility network.
Critics have described the renovated square as a 'stone desert' due to the perceived lack of greenery, sparking public debate over its design choices.
Urban Development Senator Christian Gaebler defended the redesign, citing its alignment with the square’s DDR-era appearance and its suitability for hosting major events like Classic Open Air and the Christmas market.
To address concerns, heat-resistant Japanese trees with large canopies have been planted around the square to provide additional shade.
Gaebler expressed confidence that public criticism will diminish over time as Berliners and tourists become accustomed to the renovated space.