Berlin's Volksbühne Opens Free Temporary Pool Under New Intendant Matthias Lilienthal

The Volksbühne theater at Rosa‑Luxemburg‑Platz has installed a 25‑metre temporary swimming pool that is free to the public until 1 October 2026. Tickets are allocated in two‑hour time slots and can be booked online three days in advance. The pool operates weekdays from 12 to 20 h and Thursdays from 13 to 21 h; it is closed on Mondays, Sundays and during inclement weather.

The project, announced by new intendant Matthias Lilienthal, costs about €300 000 – €90 000 for the pool itself and the remainder for staffing, safety and planning. Lilienthal describes the pool as a “loving embrace of the city” and a protest against Berlin’s lack of public swimming facilities. The initiative coincides with the theatre’s renovation and the start of its new season in October.

The opening has sparked political debate. Civic group Gemeingut in BürgerInnenhand praised the pool but condemned demolition work by baggers at the nearby SEZ, accusing the Berlin Senate and SPD officials of undermining social infrastructure. The group has called for a moratorium on the demolition.