Hackescher Markt
Berlin
Hackescher Markt is a historic square located in the Mitte district of central Berlin, Germany. Originally laid out around 1750 on marshy land by order of Frederick the Great and named after Townmajor Hans Christoph Friedrich Graf von Hacke in 1840, it developed from a neglected area into a thriving cultural and commercial center after German reunification. The square lies at the eastern end of Oranienburger Strasse and is famous for the Hackesche Höfe, a courtyard complex that is a focal point of Berlin's nightlife and cultural scene. Its architecture reflects the evolution of Berlin from a fortified city to a modern urban space, with the S-Bahn station built on the site of former city fortifications. Today, Hackescher Markt is a key transport hub served by the Berlin Stadtbahn, multiple tram lines, and night buses. It hosts a popular weekly market on Thursdays and Saturdays and is surrounded by shops, restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues, making it a lively meeting point for locals and visitors alike.
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Tip: The best time to visit Hackescher Markt is during the warmer months when the weekly markets are held on Thursdays and Saturdays, offering fresh local produce and crafts. For nightlife, evenings are vibrant with many bars and restaurants open late. Visitors are advised to use public transport for easy access, as parking is limited. Purchasing tickets for public transport in advance is recommended, and exploring the nearby Hackesche Höfe courtyards on foot is ideal for experiencing the area's unique atmosphere.
Interesting facts
- •The Hackescher Markt S-Bahn station hall, built in 1878 by Johannes Vollmer, is a protected historic monument.
- •The railway tracks along the eastern and northern sections of Mitte run where Berlin's 17th-century fortress walls and moats once stood.
- •The Hackesche Höfe courtyard complex near the square is famous for its unique Jugendstil architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
- •Hackescher Markt was historically named after Townmajor Hans Christoph Friedrich Graf von Hacke, who supervised its creation around 1750.
History
The area that is now Hackescher Markt was originally marshland north of Berlin's city fortifications.
Around 1750, under the supervision of Townmajor Hans Christoph Friedrich Graf von Hacke and by order of Frederick the Great, the square was laid out as part of a northern expansion of the city.
It was officially named Hackescher Markt in 1840.
In 1882, the Berlin Stadtbahn railway station opened here, initially called Börse, reflecting the nearby stock exchange.
The station was renamed Marx-Engels-Platz during the GDR era and reverted to Hackescher Markt in 1992 after reunification.
Post-World War II destruction and the division of Berlin led to neglect, but after 1990, the area was revitalized with restored historic buildings and transformed into a cultural and nightlife center.
Place Guide
Hackesche Höfe Courtyard ComplexEarly 20th century
A unique ensemble of interconnected courtyards featuring Jugendstil architecture, housing shops, galleries, restaurants, and nightlife venues. It is a cultural hotspot and architectural highlight of Berlin's Mitte district.
Berlin Hackescher Markt S-Bahn Station1878-1882
A historic railway station with a distinctive brick hall built in 1878, serving the Berlin Stadtbahn line. The station is a protected monument and a key transport node connecting multiple tram lines and night buses.
Contact
Phone: 030 115
