Historic Site in Treptow-Köpenick: FEZ Acquires Protected Status as a Monument
Berlin's FEZ Under Monument Protection
The FEZ (Leisure and Recreation Center) in the Wuhlheide area of Treptow-Köpenick has been granted monument protection, as announced by the Berlin Monument Authority. The decision recognizes the building's architectural and historical significance, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the former East German (DDR) time period.
Originally named the Pioneer Palace "Ernst Thälmann," the FEZ was inaugurated on October 3, 1979, serving as a significant extracurricular facility for children, youth, and families. Spanning an impressive 13,000 m² indoors and 175,000 m² outdoors, it is the largest of its kind in Europe, according to the monument authority.
Christian Gaebler, Senator for Urban Development, Building, and Housing, stated that the FEZ continues to be a vital place of contact for children and youth. He emphasized that monument protection is a crucial step towards preserving this remarkable architectural and historical origin of DDR architecture with its urban significance and cultural worth.
The Berlin Monument Office's Director, Christoph Rauhut, described the building as an outstanding example of East Berlin architecture. Designed by Günter Stahn, the former Pioneer Palace "Ernst Thälmann" is considered an architectural masterpiece of DDR modernity by the monument authority. Its layout includes a central foyer, various halls, a sports area with a swimming pool and sports hall, and an area for working groups.
Falko Liecke, FEZ Supervisory Board Chairman and State Secretary for Youth and Family, highlighted the center's long-standing role as a dependable haven for generations across education, democracy promotion, leisure, and play. He noted that upholding and safeguarding the FEZ is vital, and monument protection undoubtedly contributes to this mission.
The FEZ Berlin is a testament to DDR architecture's modernity, showcasing prominent communal spaces and youth activities characteristic of the socialist state. This preserved example of East German architecture is now under monument protection, securing its role as an essential part of Berlin's cultural heritage.
The FEZ Berlin, now under monument protection, serves as a crucial part of Berlin's cultural heritage, providing a unique insight into the lifestyle, education, and outdoor-living spaces offered during the former East German era. As a significant example of East Berlin architecture and urban significance, it continues to serve as a dependable haven for generations, promoting education, democracy, leisure, and outdoor-living activities within a home-and-garden setting that is reminiscent of the DDR modernity.
