Wettbewerbsentwürfe für den Alten Markt: 1960, Hans Pampel u.a. (links) | 1969, VEB Landbauprojekte Potsdam, Gerhard Herrmann u.a. (rechts)
In der Ausstellung.
Modell des Potsdamer Stadtzentrums 1951 (vermutl.), Potsdam Museum
In der Ausstellung.
Ansicht Karl-Liebknecht-Platz, Zweiter Preis beim Wettbewerb 1960, Sepp Weber u. a., 1960, Potsdam Museum
In der Ausstellung.
Ansicht zur Gestaltung des Alten Marktes vom VEB Landbauprojekt Potsdam, 1. Preis im Wettbewerb 1969, Gerhard Herrmann u. a., Potsdam Museum
In der Ausstellung.
Entwurf für das Potsdamer Stadtzentrum aus dem Wettbewerb 1960, Hans Pampel u.a., Potsdam Museum
Heated Debates: Loss or New Beginnings
The Old Market Square, the heart of Potsdam, was once an urban jewel in the Italian style, admired across Europe. Since its destruction in 1945, no other place in the city has been the subject such passionate debate. Ideas ranged from contrasting visions to controversial discussions — both before and after 1990. Yet for a long time, the square remained a vacant lot, parking area, green space, or construction site.
Step into the studios of urban planning
Experience eight decades of planning up close at interactive workshop tables: spread out architectural drawings, discover hidden details, and develop your own perspective on the Old Market.
Historical models reveal how the city was envisioned. Photographs and a timeline document how it actually evolved. Artistic works condense (oder: distil) impressions and perspectives, while filmed interviews give voice to those involved.
Abriss des Theaterrohbaus, 1991, Thoas Töpfer
Blick auf den Trümmerberg des Fortunaportals und die noch stehenden Reste des Stadtschlosses unmittelbar nach der Sprengung 1960, Potsdam Museum
In der Ausstellung.
Blick vom Brauhausberg auf das Stadtzentrum Potsdam 1970 (um), Potsdam Museum
In der Ausstellung.
Blick von der Freundschaftsinsel auf den Alten Markt, mit dem Rohbau des Hans Otto Theaters, um 1990, Potsdam Museum
In der Ausstellung.
Baustelle Alter Markt, 1992, Potsdam Museum
In der Ausstellung.
Grabungen auf dem Alten Markt, 2007, Thoas Töpfer
How much of the past does the city of tomorrow need?
Discover a kaleidoscope of urban histories and visions that have shaped the Old Market since 1945 – right up to current discussions on climate adaptation and future use.
The exhibition is curated by Dr. Wenke Nitz, research associate for the Historical Collection, Manuscripts and Prints, and Dr. Uta Kumlehn, research associate for the Collection oft he Fine Arts up to 1850 and Applied Arts.
- OPENING HOURS and FEES
OPENING HOURS
Tue–Sun & Public Holidays: 10 am–6 pm
(closed: Mon, 25 May)Please note: On Friday, 29 May 2026, the museum closes at 5 pm due to a private event.
ADMISSION
€6, reduced €3
We recommend our combined ticket for two exhibitions, which also includes admission to the exhibition “Christopher Lehmpfuhl | Alter Markt Potsdam”:
Combined ticket: €9, reduced €5Free admission:
Children and young people up to and including 18 years of ageGroups of 6 or more:
€5 per personPotsdam Museum Annual Pass:
€35 / reduced €25
Valid for one year from the date of issue and allows unlimited visits to our exhibitions. Non-transferable.Reduced admission applies to (upon presentation of valid proof):
School pupils, trainees/apprentices, students.
