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St. Matthew Church

St. Matthew Church is a neo-Romanesque church at the southern edge of the Tiergarten in Berlin. It is the only historic building within the modern setting of the Kulturforum.

St. Matthew's Church is the only old building that stands out between the buildings on Potsdamer Platz and the Kulturforum. It is surrounded by important 20th century buildings such as the Neue Nationalgalerie, the Gemäldegalerie and the Philharmonie. In this modern setting, St. Matthew's Church is a link to the 19th century.

Stüler's most beautiful church building

Schinkel's pupil Friedrich August Stüler designed the parish church in 1846 for the citizens who were increasingly settling on the southern edge of the Tiergarten. St. Matthew's Church is considered one of Stüler's most beautiful church buildings. When it was consecrated in May 1846, the surrounding area still consisted of gardens and parkland.

Architecture of St. Matthew Church

The church has three naves, with all three aisles having separate gabled roofs. The north side of the church is crowned by a square tower. Visitors to the church who climb the steps are rewarded with a sweeping view over Tiergarten, Potsdamer Platz and Grunewald. On the south side, an apse closes off the nave.

Modern and old at the same time

During the National Socialist era, the church stood in the way of urban planning. It was to be demolished along with the surrounding buildings. The church survived the Second World War as a ruin. Its remains were untouched for more than ten years. Under the direction of architect Jürgen Emmerich, St. Matthew's Church was rebuilt between 1956 and 1960. The exterior of the church is true to the original. The interior has a modern design. The cultural forum was built around St. Matthew's Church. Today it is a listed building and is a reminder of the 19th century amidst the new buildings. Church services are held in the church. But exhibitions and cultural events such as readings and concerts also take place here.