The AquaDom is the world’s largest cylindrical aquarium, located in the Radisson SAS Hotel in Berlin. Opened in 2004, it is 25 meters tall, and holds a million liters of saltwater. This beautiful piece of engineering is home to more than 2600 fish of approximately 100 species — and employs 2 full-time divers to feed the marine life and clean the tank. The outer shell is made of acrylic (the world’s largest acrylic cylinder) and the whole tank sits on 9-meter concrete foundation. Visitors experience the AquaDom by riding a transparent elevator through the center of the aquarium. Total cost of the project? About 12.8 million euros.

Here’s a quote about the project from the manufacturer — International Concept Management:

The resulting design: maintains perfect water clarity (an enormous feat given the aquarium’s height), water pressure and unique viewing capabilities; features structural elements that enable the right fish species to inhabit each level of the aquarium while protecting smaller fish from their larger predators, and brings in natural sunlight needed to support critically endangered species.

Opened in April 2004, the AquaDom still soars: an outstanding marvel of creative imagination, technical engineering and precise installation.

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