Haus der Kulturen der Welt, Cultural center in Tiergarten, Germany
Haus der Kulturen der Welt occupies the former Congress Hall on the Spree in Berlin's government district. Its sweeping white roof arches over a tall rounded facade of vertical wood-toned panels, with a broad central stair rising to the entrance. A white band on the right reads "Der Traum vom Fliegen"; a yellow banner left of the stairs reads "DER KULTURE".
American architect Hugh Stubbins designed the building in 1957 as Congress Hall, a gift from the United States to the Federal Republic. The roof partially collapsed in 1980 and after reconstruction in 1987 it was repurposed for cultural events.
The institution adopted its current name in 1989 and hosts discussions, concerts, and performances from all continents. Visitors experience contemporary art from Asia, Africa, Latin America, and other regions through rotating programs.
Access is via a ramp or stairs from the park, and all areas are reachable for wheelchair users. Opening hours vary depending on events, so checking the program on the website beforehand is recommended.
Outside the entrance, Henry Moore's nearly nine-ton bronze Large Divided Oval: Butterfly (1985–86) stands in a water basin; it was his last major work, sold to Berlin in 1988 for 4.5 million Deutsche Mark and restored in 2010.
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