Concerns Rise as Berlin's Mediterranean House Faces Neglect

The future of the Mediterranean House at the Botanical Garden in Berlin hangs in the balance as funding for its long-overdue renovation has been denied by the city's parliament. The historical greenhouse, which has stood for over a century, is now at risk of closure, much to the dismay of the garden's management.

The Berlin Senate had previously listed the renovation for 2024 but ultimately removed it from the funding agenda. An initial allocation of EUR500,000 was put on hold, and a decision that was expected in December has been postponed multiple times. The Senate's Department for Urban Development, Building and Housing has withdrawn its request to release the funds, citing the current lack of financial assurance for the project.

The director of the Botanical Garden expressed disbelief at the decision, emphasizing the structural concerns surrounding the greenhouse which may soon necessitate its closure for both visitors and staff. Such a closure would not only limit public access but also result in lost revenue, as the venue is frequently rented for events like weddings.

Furthermore, the garden is facing a critical threat to its invaluable scientific collections due to the deteriorating heating system. The failure of this system could lead to severe damage to the Mediterranean plant collection, which includes rare species. Additionally, the garden's collection of ferns, some of which are over 120 years old, is also at risk.

Over the years, the renovation of the Mediterranean House has been repeatedly postponed, with only temporary fixes applied to its numerous issues. The estimated cost for the complete restoration of the building, originally constructed in 1909, is projected to be EUR26 million. Delays in addressing the renovation only exacerbate the financial burden, as costs continue to rise.

Preparations for the renovation had already begun, including the cultivation of new plants to facilitate a smooth transition during the renovation process. However, these efforts may now be wasted due to the indefinite postponement of the project.

Despite the setback, the Botanical Garden's leadership remains hopeful for a swift resolution. They are advocating for discussions to secure funding for the restoration of this unique structure, which not only serves as a cultural landmark in Berlin but also attracts tourists to the less frequented outer districts. The Mediterranean House is characterized by its impressive height of nearly 16 meters and features a design reminiscent of a cathedral, complete with two towers housing staircases. While the facade retains its original charm from 1904, it is currently in a state of disrepair.