What will be your impression of the Märkische Museum? Let me tell you about my original ideas for this place, which opened its doors for the first time in 1908. My name is Ludwig Hoffmann, I am the architect of the museum. For 28 years I was Berlins’ councillor for urban planning. My concepts shaped numerous public buildings. But this museum was particularly close to my heart. Why? It is a museum of the citizens, and for them. It preserves historical objects from Berlin and the Margraviate of Brandenburg. That is why, for my design, I studied the architectural styles of the area. I wanted the museum to look as if it had grown over centuries and was a natural part of Berlin. That’s why it combines different styles of architecture. Equally important was the interior: I wanted to display the objects in an atmosphere that matched their character. Therefore, I created the medieval armoury and the guild hall. My aim was to preserve a piece of Old Berlin in them. And to bring it to life for future generations. Maybe it works for you? My ideas certainly still affect this museum today.