The first tenants moved in a year later. This “city within a building” consisted of 382 apartments and 19 retail spaces spread across 27 floors. The Erlangen-based architects Hanns and Heinz Scherzer had integrated a swimming pool, a medical spa, a fitness center, doctors’ offices, restaurants, and shopping facilities into their design for the building.
The project developer, BEWOBAU Hamburg, praised it as a “synthesis of function and beauty in a contemporary style.” The “English Garden” originally planned next to the building was never built. To this day, the Lange Johann—whose name was chosen in 1972 as part of a design competition—remains Bavaria’s largest residential building, with over 1,000 residents. Sound inviting? The internet reveals, however, that aside from basement units, there isn’t a single vacant spot to be found there.
A segment on the Bavarian Broadcasting Corporation’s program “Zwischen Spessart und Karwendel” from September 9, 2023, offers a glimpse into the Erlangen skyscraper.
The Lange Johann shortly before its completion (Photo: City of Erlangen)
More About the City's History
City archive
The Erlangen City Archive is the official memory of Erlangen. The main tasks of the city archive include the permanent storage and cataloging of collections.
Short Stories from the City
Erlangen has a long and interesting history. There's a lot to tell. A look back.
City archive
The Erlangen City Archive is the official memory of Erlangen. The main tasks of the city archive include the permanent storage and cataloging of collections.
Short Stories from the City
Erlangen has a long and interesting history. There's a lot to tell. A look back.