Getting started: the flight of steps along the Spree Canal is being built.
© dpa
Construction work on the steps at the Humboldt Forum in Berlin's historic center began with a symbolic ground-breaking ceremony.
The 38-metre-wide staircase will lead down to the Spree Canal. The 6.89 million euro construction project is scheduled for completion in mid-2027, according to the Senate Department for Urban Development.
On the Spree Island with its architectural heritage - such as the museums and the cathedral - direct contact with the water is obstructed by high bank walls, said district councillor Ephraim Gothe. "The new flight of steps will now change this and create a contemplative place right by the water." Originally, there was also a proposal for a river pool. However, this is not currently planned. There are also plans to build seating steps and plant trees. The project is being funded with 3.78 million euros from the federal government, with the Senate Department financing 3.11 million euros.