The Berlin Cathedral remains the definitive work of Julius Carl Raschdorff, a figure who directed the construction of over 220 building designs throughout his career. Active from the mid-19th century until the early 20th century, he balanced a prolific private practice with a significant academic career as a professor at the Technische Universität Berlin.
Early Training and Cologne Period
Born in Pszczyna in 1823, Raschdorff received his education at the Bauakademie between 1845 and 1853. Following his studies, he began a long tenure in Cologne starting in 1854. During this period, he functioned as both the 2nd and later 1st city architect, leaving an impact on the municipal infrastructure. His renovation projects in the city included the Gürzenich and the town hall, established his reputation as a master builder before he transitioned to private practice in 1872.
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Raschdorff joined the faculty of the Technische Universität Berlin in 1878, where he taught until his retirement as professor emeritus in 1914. His expertise in the field was acknowledged through various distinctions, including the Bavarian Maximilian Order for Science and Art in 1881 and a large gold medal at the Große Berliner Kunstausstellung in 1896. He was also a member of the Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts.
Architectural Output
Raschdorff’s portfolio spanned diverse structures, including schools, university buildings, museums, libraries, hospitals, and churches. Notable projects include the Ständehaus in Düsseldorf, the Staatliche Zeichenakademie Hanau, and various villa designs in Langenberg. Alongside his son Otto, he collaborated on major urban development schemes and submitted competition entries for the Museum Island. His written output was equally prolific, documenting techniques in German Renaissance style and ironwork.
Fast facts
- Born: 1823, Pszczyna
- Died: 1914, Waldsieversdorf
- Citizenship: Kingdom of Prussia
- Key work: Berlin Cathedral
- Education: Bauakademie
- Buried: Dorotheenstadt cemetery II
- Award: Bavarian Maximilian Order for Science and Art (1881)
Questions readers ask
How many of his designs were actually executed?
Raschdorff designed over 220 buildings, of which approximately 100 were constructed across 40 different locations.
Where is he buried?
He was laid to rest at the Dorotheenstadt cemetery II in Berlin.
Achievements
- Notable work: Berlin Cathedral
- Bavarian Maximilian Order for Science and Art
- Trained at Bauakademie
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