On the third day of my stay in Berlin, the weather took an unexpected turn. The sun that had accompanied me during my walks over the past days gave way to gray clouds and a persistent drizzle. But in a city like Berlin, a rainy day doesn’t mean the adventures stop; on the contrary, it was the perfect opportunity to visit one of the city’s many museums. Our choice fell on the Humboldt Forum, a cultural treasure trove that brings together the best of the past and the future.
The Humboldt Forum, located in the heart of Berlin on Museum Island, is not just a museum. The building itself, an impressive reconstruction of the former Berlin City Palace (Stadtschloss), symbolizes the controversies and rediscovery of history that are so characteristic of Berlin. Originally built in the 18th century, the Stadtschloss was almost completely destroyed during World War II and later demolished by the East German government. In the 2000s, a decision was made to rebuild the palace, with the exterior in the original Baroque style while the interior became a modern, contemporary space housing exhibitions and events.
Upon entering the Humboldt Forum, you are immediately struck by the blend of old and new. The classical facades of the palace contrast beautifully with the sleek, minimalist interior spaces. The building is not only a tribute to the past but also a space for dialogue, where art, culture, and science come together to tell new stories.
The collection at the Humboldt Forum is as diverse and fascinating as the city itself. The permanent exhibitions are dedicated to the cultural and natural history of the world, with a particular focus on non-European cultures. I soon found myself immersed in the halls dedicated to the cultures of Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. The objects on display range from ancient artifacts to contemporary artworks, telling stories of the rich diversity of human expression throughout the ages. What makes this collection so special is its emphasis on connections and exchanges between cultures, something that perfectly fits Berlin’s cosmopolitan character.
In addition to the permanent collection, the Humboldt Forum always hosts temporary exhibitions that address current themes. During my visit, I was fortunate to attend an exhibition centered on climate change and its impact on indigenous cultures worldwide. The exhibition combined art, science, and activism, offering a deep insight into how these communities are adapting to the rapidly changing world around them. It was both informative and inspiring, reminding me of how closely human culture is intertwined with the natural world.
Another highlight of my visit to the Humboldt Forum was the stunning rooftop, a true oasis in the middle of the city. Despite the rainy weather, I couldn’t resist going up to admire the view. The rooftop offers a breathtaking panorama of Berlin, with icons like the Berlin Cathedral, the TV Tower, and the Red City Hall prominently in view. It felt as if I could take in the entire city in a single glance, a reminder of how Berlin is constantly in motion, both in the sky and on the ground.
The rooftop is not just a place for the view; it also houses a cozy café where you can enjoy a warm cup of coffee or a light meal. As I sat there, sipping a perfect cappuccino and looking out over the rainy city, I felt a deep appreciation for Berlin—a city that always has something new to offer, no matter the weather.
The Humboldt Forum turned out to be the perfect destination for a rainy day. It is a place where you can take shelter from the rain while simultaneously being challenged to think about the world around you. The combination of an impressive building, a rich and diverse collection, and an inspiring view from the rooftop made this day an unexpected highlight of my trip.
Berlin is a city that never disappoints, even when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Thanks to the Humboldt Forum, a gloomy day became one of discovery, reflection, and, not to be forgotten, delightful relaxation with a cup of coffee as I gazed out over a city that never ceases to surprise me.