Overview

• The Gendarmenmarkt, a historic Berlin square, has reopened following a two-year renovation involving 14,000 square meters of restored natural stone paving and a five-kilometer underground utility network.
• Critics have described the renovated square as a 'stone desert' due to the perceived lack of greenery, sparking public debate over its design choices.
• Urban Development Senator Christian Gaebler defended the redesign, citing its alignment with the square’s DDR-era appearance and its suitability for hosting major events like Classic Open Air and the Christmas market.
• To address concerns, heat-resistant Japanese trees with large canopies have been planted around the square to provide additional shade.
• Gaebler expressed confidence that public criticism will diminish over time as Berliners and tourists become accustomed to the renovated space.