Amin Taha’s inspiration: Pergamon Altar, Museum Island, Berlin

1 Pergamonaltar_KLeuker web

Source: K Leuker / Staatlishe Museen zu Berlin

The architect returns to a glorious Greek altar from his childhood and reflects on the questions its long history raises

I was born in Berlin and raised until eight years old within walking distance of the Museum Island with its Altes, Neues and Pergamon Museum, home of the Pergamon Altar.

Though as a child it was Schinkel’s nearby, Soviet-repurposed Neue Wache (New Guardsman) building with its eternal flame and changing guard that left the longest impression, when I returned to Berlin as an undergraduate I naturally came to all these buildings with a different perspective and appreciation, especially in relation to the Pergamon Altar.

This is premium content. 

Only logged in subscribers have access to it.

Login or SUBSCRIBE to view this story

Gated access promo

Existing subscriber? LOGIN

A subscription to Building Design will provide:

  • Unlimited architecture news from around the UK
  • Reviews of the latest buildings from all corners of the world
  • Full access to all our online archives
  • PLUS you will receive a digital copy of WA100 worth over £45.

Subscribe now for unlimited access.

Alternatively REGISTER for free access on selected stories and sign up for email alerts