Zeiss Building 15

Zeiss Building 15 is an office building at the core of the Zeiss factory complex in Jena, standing 42 meters tall with early industrial architectural features. The complex connects multiple structures from the 1910s that together formed the manufacturing facilities for optical instruments.

Architect Friedrich Putzer designed the building in 1915 as part of Zeiss AG's expansion to support growing precision instrument production. The design followed modern factory concepts of that era with open floor plans and sturdy steel frame construction.

The building shows the connection between Jena and worldwide optical technology that remains present in the city today. Its columns and facades recall the craftsmanship tradition behind Zeiss manufacturing.

The building remains in office use today and can be viewed from outside as part of a walk through the Zeiss grounds. The best views come from the southwest, where the full facade height and steel roof construction are clearly visible.

The building was one of the first places where Zeiss supplied workers with modern electric lighting, which was unusual at that time. This innovation made work safer and allowed longer shifts during dark months.

Location: Jena

Inception: 1915

Architects: Friedrich Pützer

Height: 42 m

Part of: Zeiss-Hauptwerk

GPS coordinates: 50.92820,11.58260

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:44