St. Nicholas' Church

The Nikolaikirche, or Church of St. Nicholas, is the oldest church in Berlin, located in the historic Nikolaiviertel district. Built between 1220 and 1230, the church has undergone numerous architectural transformations that reflect the stylistic evolution of the city through the centuries. Originally built as a Catholic church, it became a Lutheran church after the Protestant Reformation in 1539, a significant change that marked the religious history of the region. The Nikolaikirche has undergone many structural changes over the centuries. The Gothic choir was added in 1380, while the hallenkirche-style aisles were built in 1480, typical of the late Gothic period. These architectural elements have given the church its characteristic Gothic appearance, with pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses that not only embellish the structure but also ensure its stability. A historically important element is the Beyer crypt, considered the oldest room in Berlin. Located at the original ground level of the city, this crypt contains a treasure trove of coins collected between 1514 and 1734 to finance the construction of the church. During restoration work in the 1980s, around 150 tombs oriented from west to east were discovered, providing valuable information about early Christian practices in the region and suggesting that Berlin evolved around this central site. During World War II, the Nikolaikirche suffered severe damage from Allied bombings. The roof and towers were destroyed, and the vaults collapsed in 1949. However, the church was located in East Berlin, and it was only in 1981 that the authorities of the German Democratic Republic allowed its reconstruction according to the original plans. Today, the rebuilt church serves as a museum and concert hall, managed by the Stadtmuseum Berlin. Inside the church, visitors can admire a series of important artworks and historical artifacts. Among these, the bronze baptismal font from 1398 and the Baroque pulpit from 1714 stand out. The altar, dating back to the late post-Reformation Renaissance, is decorated with a painting of the Last Supper. These elements reflect the artistic and cultural wealth accumulated by the church over the centuries. Another significant aspect of the Nikolaikirche is its organ, built by the Jehmlich company from Dresden. With 44 stops on three manuals, the organ is renowned for its sound quality and is regularly used for concerts, taking advantage of the excellent acoustics of the church. Every Friday, an organ concert attracts music enthusiasts and tourists, enriching the cultural experience offered by the church. The Nikolaikirche has also hosted significant historical events. After the reunification of Germany, the first meeting of the newly elected Berlin Parliament was held here on January 11, 1991. This event highlights the central role of the church not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of continuity and rebirth for the city of Berlin. The location of the Nikolaikirche in the heart of the Nikolaiviertel, an area rich in restored medieval buildings, adds further charm to the visit. The neighborhood, with its cobblestone streets and historic facades, offers a glimpse into Berlin’s past, allowing visitors to imagine life in the city during the Middle Ages.