Zeughaus

The Zeughaus is a baroque arsenal building in Mitte featuring four wings surrounding an interior courtyard, a 90-meter square footprint, and round-arch windows with decorated keystones. Its orderly layout and symmetrical design represent a distinctive example of Prussian military architecture.

Construction took place between 1695 and 1706 under Frederick I of Prussia, originally designed to store Brandenburg and Prussian cannons. Over the centuries, its function evolved, yet it remains a defining landmark in the city's landscape.

The building now houses the German Historical Museum, where visitors can explore exhibitions about military history, weapons, and how warfare shaped German society. These collections reveal how conflicts and political events influenced the nation's development.

The building sits along Unter den Linden boulevard and is currently closed for renovation work through late 2025. Permanent exhibitions are being updated and expanded during this period.

In 1943, Rudolf von Gersdorff attempted to assassinate Adolf Hitler here during an exhibition opening. The building thus unknowingly became part of one of the most courageous acts of resistance against the Nazi regime.

Location: Bezirk Mitte von Berlin

Architects: Johann Arnold Nering, Martin Grünberg, Andreas Schlüter, Jean de Bodt

Architectural style: baroque architecture

GPS coordinates: 52.51780,13.39690

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:50