Federal Chancellery - Bundeskanzleramt · Audio guide
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Story
On the Spree, where the Wall once split the city in half, architects built a cube so immense it could swallow eight White Houses whole.
This is the Federal Chancellery. Nineteen ninety-one: Berlin chose to move its capital back from Bonn. They needed a symbol, not just an office.
Axel Schultes and Charlotte Frank designed it to be transparent—glass everywhere, no hiding. Inside the cube, light floods the corridors like a confession.
Berliners call it a washing machine. Look at the curve, the way it bends—it's exactly a drum spinning in the spin cycle.
In the courtyard stands a bronze sculpture by Eduardo Chillida, a Basque artist. Two metal halves face each other—reaching toward unity.
The whole thing spans the Spree on what they call the Federal Ribbon—connecting east and west with government, with intention, with architecture.
From the Skylobby, you see the Tiergarten, the Reichstag's dome, the city breathing as one. The past and present, finally, in the same frame.
A building built to say: we are transparent now. We are united now. We are here.
Visiting Federal Chancellery - Bundeskanzleramt
- How to get there
- The closest metro/train stop is Bundestag, 75 meters away. Nearby bus stops include Platz der Republik at 285 meters and Reichstag/Bundestag at 316 meters.
- Entry and price
- Entry is free.
- Opening hours
- The site is always open.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Federal Chancellery called 'die Waschmaschine'?
The Federal Chancellery is nicknamed 'die Waschmaschine' by Berliners due to its round windows, resembling a washing machine.
What is the significance of the sculpture at the entrance?
The sculpture at the entrance, made by Eduardo Chillida, weighs 87.5 tons and represents two hands interlocking, symbolizing the closing of division after the reunification of Germany.
What unique feature does the fourth floor of the Chancellery have?
The fourth floor of the Chancellery contains soundproof rooms designed to be espionage-proof for crisis meetings.
What happens at the Chancellery during the carnival?
During the carnival, the windows of the canteen are sealed to prevent outsiders from seeing government staff dressed in costumes, a tradition brought by officials from the Rhineland.
What is the Paul-Löbe-Haus?
The Paul-Löbe-Haus is a building where German politics are actively discussed. It houses 21 committee rooms where parliamentarians debate laws before voting in the Reichstag.
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