While wandering around the city of Berlin in Germany, one is likely to be struck by the fact the area inhabited by the Nordic embassies, that is, those of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. The present day Embassies of the Nordic states are found in the Pankow district of the city and they offer an exquisite view of the context of Swedish/B Scanina, Denmark and Norway to Berlin.

The Nordic Embassies Complex

The building of the Nordic Embassies Complex or the so-called “Embassy Quarter” is a small but interesting architectural peculiarity that contains the samples of architectural work of the participating countries. Their statuses are due to the fact that every embassy building was designed by a separate architect and reflects the spirit of the Nordic country that it is used by.

Denmark Embassy

The Danish Embassy is also by Alfred Berger and Tiina Parkkinen with some of the modern design mixed with a Danish flair. From its white exterior and lack of ornamentation, this embassy is a prime example of modern Denmark design.

Finland Embassy

The Finnish Embassy that has been designed by architect Mikko Heikkinen has been built based on strong focus on sustainability and ecological approach. Wood and organic element bring the close relation with the nature which is one of the country’s values – environmental protection and sustainable development.

Iceland Embassy

One of the recent buildings of the Norwegian architectural bureau Lund Hagem is the Icelandic Embassy, which ruthlessly conveys the spirit of the Icelandic landscapes, and, like the frame of a picture, consists of large glass walls, the thickness of which allows for overlook of the surrounding territory. The building’s graceful and phenomenal appearance represents the relationship between the nature and modem of Iceland.

Norway Embassy

The Norwegian Embassy building was designed by the Danish architects Dorthe Mandrup-Poulsen and Lars Frank Nielsen and the particular references to Norwegian design can be easily seen in the simplicity and materials used in the building. Honesty and openness represent democracy and diplomatic experience of Norwegian people.

Sweden Embassy

This building is the Swedish Embassy built by Swedish architects Gert Wingårdh and Thomas Hansen All in all, the building represent modern Swedish architecture with shot of traditional flavor. This embassy has a brick facade that contrasts with the notoriously progressive internal design; the interior is moderately spacious and very homelike.

What to Do and See

In addition to their stunning designs, the Nordic Embassies host different cultural, educational and arts presentations, whereby a visitor of the Nordic embassies can experience a true feel of Nordic countries. Some of the activities you can experience include:

Exhibitions and Art Installations

The Nordic Embassies or their cultural offices are almost always presenting exhibitions and, sometimes, art installations of works of leading Nordic artists. These exhibitions are concerned with presenting trends of modern art as well as preserving craft and culture of the Nordic countries.

Cultural Events and Concerts

Public diplomacy measures can include such things as musical performances, and since the Nordic countries sometimes have a conception of being cold and rather ascetic, these can be occasions for promoting the fact that the Nordic countries have a rich tradition of music, and also dancing, as well as literature. You may get an opportunity to watch the concerts of the people of Nordic countries singing, dancing and reciting their poetry.

Lectures and Workshops

Cultural fairs and festivals are also often rounded with lectures and workshops on history, politics and sustainability, among others. Such occasions mean an opportunity to communicate with professionals and get insights into Nordic mindset and aesthetics.

Planning Your Visit

If you’re interested in exploring the Nordic Embassies in Berlin, here are a few tips to make the most of your visit:

Check Embassy Websites

Public information also include embassy events, opening times and other guidelines which could be viewed under each embassy site before visiting.

Attend Open House Events

Various open house events are conducted by the Nordic Embassies at which one is free to wander through the structures and gardens of the embassies. Such occasions are good to enjoy the architecture and get familiar with the Seven Nordic countries.

Plan Your Itinerary

Due to various events and exhibitions that are always ongoing at different emabassies, it will be advisable to plan the day and time of your visit so that you can access all you need. Choose which exhibitions or events are more important according to you and plan your visit accordingly.

Visiting the Nordic Embassies in Berlin is a part cultural tourism that enables one to have a feel of the Nordic countries heritage, architecture and current arts. If you are a fan of architecture, art, or traveling through various cultures this hidden gem in Berlin needs to be on your must see list!