The Propaganda Ministry

Goebbels intended to set up his future Propaganda Ministry in the former Ordenspalais. Although the facade of the baroque building was re-constructed by Friedrich August Stüler in the 19th century, based on the plans of Karl Friedrich Schinkel, the Palais and the Reich Chancellery projected one of the few architectural witnesses of the plaza’s initial historical construction. This was the reason why the modification of the facade was not up for discussion at this time. However, the building was renovated. Goebbels contracted Albert Speer to completely refurnish and partially modernise his offices and SA construction crews were sent to the just previously renovated building. During this construction work, the crews often disregarded the historical substance of the building. Goebbels had very little interest in preserving the historical building.