Marie-Elisabeth-Lüders-Haus — Attraction in Berlin

I’ve long admired the Marie‑Elisabeth‑Lüders‑Haus in Berlin’s government district—it’s a building that truly captures the spirit of transparency and unity, both architecturally and historically.

Designed by Stephan Braunfels and inaugurated in December 2003, the building sits gracefully along the Spree River, directly across from the Reichstag. It forms part of the architectural ensemble known as the Band des Bundes (“Federal Ribbon”), a symbolic ribbon of government buildings that spans the river and unites the once-divided halves of Berlin.

One of the most striking features is the pedestrian bridge, the “Marie‑Elisabeth‑Lüders‑Steg”, which arches over the Spree to connect the Lüders‑Haus with the neighboring Paul‑Löbe‑Haus. This bridge is much more than a physical link—it’s a symbolic “leap over the Spree” that visually underscores German.

Inside, the building houses the parliamentary library, archives, press documentation, and the Scientific Service of the Bundestag. Remarkably, the library holds well over a million volumes—making it one of the largest parliamentary libraries in the world—all organized under one roof, which had previously been spread across at least eight locations in Bonn.

A particularly impactful element is the Berlin Wall memorial incorporated within the building. Segments of the original wall are arranged along its former route, creating a poignant reminder of the city’s divided past, embedded right in its heart visitBerlin.

The building’s form is minimalist and elegant: in-situ concrete walls—often referred to as “the marble of the 21st century”—combine with expansive glass façades and open courtyard layouts. The effect is light-filled and transparent, with generous public spaces and a massive central hall that can accommodate up to 1,200 people .

Overall, the Marie‑Elisabeth‑Lüders‑Haus feels like an architectural embodiment of democratic values: open, inclusive, and rooted in history while firmly...

The Marie-Elisabeth-Lüders-Haus is a modern government building in Berlin, Germany, located along the Spree River. It is part of the Federal Government complex and serves as the home of the German Bundestag’s library and research facilities. Named after Marie-Elisabeth Lüders, a pioneering women's rights activist and politician, the building features striking contemporary architecture, with large glass facades symbolizing transparency in democracy. Connected to the Paul-Löbe-Haus via a pedestrian bridge, it forms an integral part of Berlin’s government district. Visitors can admire its design, explore exhibitions on German history, or enjoy the scenic...

The Marie-Elisabeth-Lüders-Haus in Berlin is a triumph of contemporary German architecture. The building's striking facade, comprised of shimmering glass and steel, is a testament to the power of design. Inside, the vast, light-filled atrium is the centerpiece of the building, around which are arranged beautifully proportioned offices and meeting rooms. The attention to detail is impressive, with a focus on the use of high-quality materials and thoughtful functionality. The Marie-Elisabeth-Lüders-Haus is a stunning example of modern design, reflecting the creativity and precision of Germany's...