Steinplatz: Historic place shines in new splendor!

Steinplatz: Historic place shines in new splendor!

In the heart of Berlin, opposite the main building of the University of the Arts, stands Steinplatz - a historic place with new life. The square, named after Heinrich Friedrich Karl Freiherr vom und zum Stein, was created in 1885 in honor of one of the most important Prussian reformers of his time. Stein was not only a central player in the politics of Prussian reforms, but also a visionary who laid down the basics of modern society.

Heinrich Friedrich Karl Reichsfreiherr vom und zum Stein, born on October 25, 1757 in Nassau and died on June 29, 1831 in Cappenberg, was a key advocate for reforms that transformed Prussia into an enlightened nation state. From 1807 onwards, together with Karl August von Hardenberg, he created the foundations for the so-called “Stein-Hardenberg reforms”, which included the liberation of farmers and equality for citizens. These laws were a reaction to Prussia's catastrophic defeats in 1806 and 1807 and came about at a time of upheaval and the need to reorient the state, particularly after the Peace of Tilsit.

A place with history and green design

The redesign of Steinplatz in 2018 transformed it into an inviting place for students, residents and passers-by. Previously blessed with a rather dreary appearance, the square was redesigned by Joachim Kaiser in 1950, with classic green spaces and flower borders coming to the fore. Today the square no longer serves as just a transit station, but as a lively space that promotes exchange and culture.

Since 2019, the Steinplatz has also been used for artistic and creative activities. Performances, readings and temporary installations find a space here that connects the past and the present.

The role of the Prussian reforms

The reform measures that Stein and his colleagues introduced were not only an attempt to reorganize Prussia's social and economic structures, but were also necessary to emerge from an absolutist agrarian state. King Frederick William III. was forced to introduce reforms after Prussia suffered major losses of territory through backbiting and wars. The reforms also included the introduction of freedom of trade, equality for Jews and the self-government of cities through elected representatives.

Within the reformative framework, not only a stronger role for ministers emerged, but also the basis for the later national unification of Germany. Stein, along with other reformers, was recognized for his foresight and courage to change society even after his death and remains an important figure in German history.

With the Steinplatz we have a place that not only commemorates the achievements of Heinrich Friedrich Karl from and to the stone, but also sets an example for cultural life and community exchange in the lively city of West Berlin. Here, history and the present live hand in hand and offer everyone a place to linger and exchange ideas.

When it comes to combining a glorious past and a dynamic present, the Steinplatz lives up to its name.

For more in-depth information and an exciting historical journey about Heinrich Friedrich Karl from and to the stone and the Reformation period in Prussia, you can find an interesting article here ARD media library, as well as detailed information about the person Stein Wikipedia and to the Prussian reforms here.