Welcome to Berlin Tourist Attractions, Tipps and Information
Kaiser-Wilhelm Memorial Church
Directly on the Kurfürstendamm avenue lies the Kaiser-Willhelm Memorial Church- known predominantly as ‘Memorial Church’ by Berliners or the ‘Hollow Tooth’ due to its appearance. Because of the combination of the new construction and elements from the old tower ruins the sacred building creates a special attraction for both the locals and tourists.
The focus of today’s ensemble is the ruins of the old church spire which dates back to the original church building from the years 1891 to 1895. During the course of the Second World War in 1943 the church was almost completely destroyed by the allied bombing raids. As a result the church nave completely caved in on itself, with only the spire remaining partially in tact. Shortly after the end of the war things were already underway for the building of a memorial church, in which the remnants of the old church tower were originally meant to be demolished. However frequent protests by the public against this action resulted in a decision to keep the ruins of the tower in tact and to construct the new buildings around them.
The new buildings were designed by the architect Egon Eiermann – whose plans were implemented between the years 1959 to 1961. In addition to a nave, a church tower with an attached baptismal and matrimonial church was also built in a modern style. The old church spire was preserved, and today houses a memorial hall in remembrance of the destruction of the war.
Through the preservation of old parts of the church steeple the Kaiser Willhelm Memorial Church radiates with a particular fascination. It has been affectionately named ‘Hollow Tooth’ by Berliners and many speak of it as being Germany’s most beautiful ruins.
The new buildings around the old church tower are distinguished by their futuristic and modern architecture. Main features of the construction are the honeycomb concrete elements which through the countless stained glass inlays, let much light into the building, creating a special atmosphere.
Today the Kaiser-Willhelm Memorial Church is one of the most visited places in Berlin. Hardly any other building in the capital city embodies the indomitable will of the Germans to rebuild their country within the shortest time possible after the war, as strongly as this memorial church.
Visitorinformation
Adress: Gedächtniskirche, Breitscheidplatz, 10789 Berlin
Openings: daily 9am to 7pm
Website: http://www.gedaechtniskirche-berlin.de/KWG/index.php
[ © Copyright by www.berlin-travel-sightseeing.com | Berlin Sightseeing - Tourist Attractions, Tipps and Information about Berlin]
nach oben | Home | Sitemap | Imprint
©: www.berlin-travel-sightseeing.com