Rathaus Dessau, Municipal building in Dessau-Roßlau, Germany.
Rathaus Dessau is a brick building with a 73-meter tower that features a viewing platform reached by 159 steps at 41 meters high. Inside, the structure houses municipal offices and citizen service centers.
The building was completed in 1901 by architects Reinhardt and Süßenguth from Charlottenburg, replacing earlier town halls dating back to the 13th century. A fire in 1910 destroyed large sections and historical records, prompting the original architects to oversee its reconstruction.
The Peace Bell standing in front of the building was installed in 2002 and marks the political changes of 1989. The square around it serves as a gathering place for local events and celebrations.
The viewing platform is accessible by climbing the tower stairs and offers views across the city. The building is easy to locate in the city center, with its tall tower creating a recognizable landmark.
The reconstruction after the 1910 fire added new elements while preserving the original structure underneath. This makes it an interesting example of how the building blends historical preservation with practical rebuilding.
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