Located in Berlin’s Treptower Park, the Archenhold Observatory is Germany’s oldest and largest public observatory, founded in 1896. Its most iconic feature is the Great Refractor, a 21-meter-long movable telescope nicknamed the “Celestial Cannon”—still the longest of its kind in the world. Originally built for the Great Industrial Exposition, the observatory became a permanent fixture thanks to Friedrich Simon Archenhold’s vision of public science education. The site includes the historic Einstein Hall, where Albert Einstein gave his first public lecture on General Relativity in 1915, as well as a museum, planetarium, and solar physics exhibition. Visitors of all ages can explore astronomy through guided tours, lectures, and interactive programs.
Berlin GermanyThe Archenhold Observatory is located at Alt-Treptow 1, 12435 Berlin, Germany, within the scenic Treptower Park. This historic observatory is famous for its record-breaking telescope, interactive astronomy exhibitions, and striking meteorite displays, offering a unique experience for visitors of all ages. The observatory is surrounded by the sprawling, partly-forested Treptower Park, which features riverside promenades, playgrounds, picnic areas, and notable landmarks like the Soviet War Memorial Treptow, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration. Nearby, you'll find the East Side Gallery, displaying art on a preserved section of the Berlin Wall, and family-friendly attractions such as the Museum für Naturkunde and Märkisches Museum, both easily accessible with public transit. Whether you're interested in stargazing, enjoying Berlin's parks, or exploring rich cultural sites, the Archenhold Observatory and its vibrant surroundings provide a memorable destination in the heart of Berlin.