Whenever you are in Berlin, Germany, and interested in shopping, one place that would attract you is the Kaufhaus des Westens or KaDeWe for short. This large-scale department store has been associated with the status of a rich person, exclusiveness and sophistication since the time of its establishment in the year 1907. Learn why KaDeWe must be on your list of destinations; let’s look at the history of KaDeWe, its attractions, and the sensations that can be received when visiting this store.
The History Behind KaDeWe
The history of convective department store KaDeWe is much older than it may seem: the store was founded in 1909. It was constructed in the year 1905 and was completed in 1907 and has grown to be among the most ancient and extensive department stores in Europe. Earlier it was established by two businessmen Adolf Jandorf and Theresa Stinde and the HEINRICHS building was designed by architect Emil Schaudt.
For decades, the store had gone through the two major world wars and political transformations, which made KaDeWe an essence of West Berlin during the time of the city split. It remains a symbol of hope and innovation among the German people in the current society.
Unparalleled Luxury and Brands
KaDeWe is famous for providing exceptional service that is quite different from its competitors. I have recently visited this commercial behemoth having large floor area over eight stories and offers a diversified product mix of luxury clothing and accessories, haute couture, make-up, furniture, home appliance, wine and spirits, etc. This vast superior store has everything you need in luxury items such as fashionable apparels, shoes, bags and accessories by great designers, jewelry, and elegant time pieces.
One of the largest sections of KaDeWe is truly the gourmet’s floor which is called the Feinschmeckeretage. This restaurant means a separate floor and includes a wide choice of national and international meals. Whether it is succulent sea food or the exotic cheeses, mouth-watering wines or heavenly chocolates, the gourmet loving souls will surely be in the foodie’s heavens.
The Extraordinary Shopping Experience
To shop at KaDeWe means going through a full shopping experience that partly defines Berlin. Customers are guaranteed elegant structures, beautiful designs and arrangements that tend to give the impression of luxury. This has made the window displays particularly famous and is viewed by a number of visitors throughout the year.
Among all the perks of visiting KaDeWe, perhaps the most striking is the top level of the building with a magnificent view of the city. There one can make a stop and make a bite, but at the same time admire a marvelous view of the city of Berlin. It also turns to a place for wintering during Christmas holiday season through the installation of an ice skating rink and excellent festive decorations that make the terrace popular with people within and outside the region.
Tips for Visiting KaDeWe
Here are some important points that would help you know what you stand to expect regarding KaDeWe:
- Due to the running tours on weekends and any other holidays that fall on weekdays, it is advised that one arrange the visit during those weekdays.
- Begin from the upper level and make your way down in order not to skip some points or exhibits.
- I insist on having a taste of the delicious food items which are found in the gourmet food section located on the 6 th floor.
- There is a beautiful architecture; admire the building and the beautiful view from the rooftop terrace during your call to the center.
- It is recommended to taste the KaDeWe cake in one of the luxurious cafes located in the store.
- Opening Hours and Location
- KaDeWe is situated on Tauentzienstraße which is one among the finest shopping districts in Berlin. The store is also conveniently located to be reached by public transport whereby Wittenbergplatz U-Bahn is one of the neighboring station. These are the overall opening hours of the restaurant:
Day Opening Hours
Monday – Saturday 10:00 AM – 08:00 PM
Sunday Closed
However, this place is closed on non-working days and holidays, and has limited opening during long holidays or festive season, thus it is advised to check with the official website before visiting.
Conclusion
Actually, the Kaufhaus des Westens, which is also called the KaDeWe, is much more than just a department store. This place is an embodiment of Berlins history, as well as a testimony to its recoveries, its shopping forum for the richest, and the gourmet’s dream. KaDeWe has been a point of interest from its historical past to the great range of products and the romantic and mystical environment it presents to its guests. Therefore, it is advisable to include it on your itinerary when in Berlin!
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