Berlin club Cassiopeia faces possible closure after receiving an eviction notice from the owner of the RAW site. Operators have been given two weeks to vacate the venue. The development follows the withdrawal of Kurth Group from negotiations over the future of the Friedrichshain complex.
Cassiopeia eviction at RAW site
Florian Falkenhagen, managing director of Cassiopeia, told rbb24 that the notice requires a rapid exit. As a result, the timeline creates immediate operational risk for the club and related activities.
Impact on socio cultural projects
The decision affects the so called socio cultural L at RAW. This area includes clubs, artist studios, and a skatepark. Operators state that more than 80 projects are linked to the site. In addition, Cassiopeia serves as a key financial anchor for many of these activities.
Users of the area warned that an eviction at the end of June would lead to the club’s immediate insolvency. Therefore, the outcome could disrupt a wide network of cultural initiatives.
Response from authorities and owner
In a joint statement, Berlin’s Senate and the Friedrichshain Kreuzberg district criticised the owner’s decision. They also stated that they will seek renewed talks with Kurth Group.
Kurth Group, which acquired the RAW site in 2015, said previously agreed terms had not been honoured. The company added that a legally secure conclusion to the planning process was no longer realistic. Despite the dispute, all parties indicated they remain open to further dialogue.
Club statement and public campaign
In an Instagram post on June 16, Cassiopeia thanked supporters and said it is “taking some time to process everything” before sharing further updates. The team added: “Just one thing: we’re not giving up.”
A campaign launched in April highlights the site’s cultural diversity and social importance. It aims to support continued use of the space by local projects.
For updates, follow official statements from Cassiopeia and local authorities.
