Tacheles Culture / Nightlife Area

Mitte, Berlin –

A remarkable space with an incredible history, Tacheles was a Jewish department store that was heavily bombed during World War II and then left in ruins in East Berlin. After German reunification, a group of artists and activists formed a collective and transformed the crumbling structure into a venue dedicated to cultural pursuits.

But visitors shouldn't be fooled by the building’s derelict appearance, because Tacheles is now an active arts center that houses artist studios, internationally-recognized galleries, cafés, clubs, and bars that draw a diverse, alternative crowd.

Stairs lead visitors to three floors of studios and galleries, where an open door signals that all are welcome to examine the works in progress or purchase finished pieces by one of the resident artists. A must-see is the amazing metal-working gallery, which features works made from abandoned metal objects.

There are also plenty of nightlife options: patrons can listen to live music at Café Zapata, dance at the top floor club, or view independent films at the Schauspieler bar and theater.

For a bit of refreshment from all of the stimulation, guests can pull up a chair or picnic table at one of the many outdoor bars and cafés in the courtyard and spend an hour mingling with the mellow mix of people who gather here.