Humboldt Forum: New Terraced Seating by Spree Canal Takes Shape
Berlin, August 28, 2026 – The construction of new terraced seating along the Spree Canal, located west of the Humboldt Forum, is progressing rapidly. The concrete shell of the new structure is now complete, offering a clear vision of how this area could be transformed into a vibrant public space by next summer.
The project, officially named “Schlossfreiheit – Freitreppe zur Spree” (Palace Freedom – Grand Staircase to the Spree), aims to integrate the previously functional riverbank more actively into the public urban landscape. This development, combined with the Humboldt Forum, Lustgarten, and Museum Island, is poised to become a new tourist highlight in Berlin’s historic center.
Construction Progress and Future Plans
Since the groundbreaking in July 2025, significant progress has been made. The reinforced concrete structure of the new grand staircase is now finished in its raw state, allowing the future form of the facility to be clearly recognized. The next steps include cladding the structure with granite and sandstone, as well as further development of the cantilevered terrace overlooking the Spree Canal.
Visitors to the construction site can already envision how the area will be utilized. The wide steps open towards the water, creating a direct connection between the Humboldt Forum’s surroundings and the Spree Canal. This design is expected to make the area a popular spot for both Berliners and tourists, especially during the summer months. Visible indentations indicate where the planned trees will be planted, further enhancing the aesthetic and providing shade.
A New Tourist Destination in Berlin’s Historic Heart
This location is already one of the most visited areas in the historic center. The addition of the grand staircase will create an inviting space not just for transit, but for sitting, lingering, and enjoying views of the Spree Canal. This significantly enhances the spatial quality of the western surroundings of the Humboldt Forum.
The project has been supported since 2019 as a premium initiative within the federal program “National Urban Development Projects.” According to the Senate Department for Urban Development, Building and Housing, the total cost amounts to 6.89 million Euros. Of this, the federal government contributes 3.78 million Euros, with the State of Berlin providing approximately 3.11 million Euros.
Project Delays and Finalization Timeline
Originally, construction was slated to begin in 2021 and conclude by 2023. However, the actual project launch was delayed by several years. This was primarily due to prolonged disputes between the responsible Senate departments and the Mitte district regarding the future ownership of the facility. Construction only commenced in summer 2025 after these jurisdictional issues were resolved. The official completion is scheduled for mid-2027. Given the current progress, the future significance of the grand staircase for the urban space around the Humboldt Forum is already evident.
The wide terraced steps are now complete in their raw form, clearly showing how the “Schlossfreiheit” will open up to the water. This new grand staircase is being built in a prominent location west of the Humboldt Forum, aiming to better connect the building complex with the Spree Canal and create additional public spaces.
Source: DSK Deutsche Stadt- und Grundstücksentwicklungsgesellschaft, Senatsverwaltung für Stadtentwicklung, Bauen und Wohnen, Grün Berlin GmbH, B.Z., Berliner Morgenpost, bbz Landschaftsarchitekten, Entwicklungsstadt.de
