Sophie Dorothea and Elisabeth Christine—Two Queens in the Life of Frederick the Great

Special tour with Rudolf G. Scharmann, former director of the castle

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  Antoine Pesne: Königin Elisabeth Christine – Antoine Pesne: Königin Elisabeth Christine

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  Antoine Pesne, Königin Sophie Dorothea – Porträt der Königin Sophie Dorothea von Preußen, geb. von Hannover (1687-1757), von Antoine Pesne, 1737, Öl auf Leinwand

From 1415 to 1918, the Hohenzollerns reigned as Electors of Brandenburg, Kings of Prussia, and German Emperors. The permanent exhibition “The Prussian Royal House” at Charlottenburg Palace demonstrates that this rise to power would not have been possible without the female members of the dynasty. More than any other Brandenburg-Prussian residence and garden complex, Charlottenburg in particular was shaped by the princesses. Starting in 1695, they had nearly all the apartments furnished and garden areas landscaped here. On various guided tours led by former palace director Rudolf G. Scharmann, you’ll gain insights into their lives.

Sophie Dorothea (1687–1757), wife of the “Soldier King” Frederick William I, retained far-reaching influence in family affairs as the mother of Frederick II. Despite their separation after he ascended the throne, Frederick the Great bestowed extensive royal honors upon his wife, Elisabeth Christine of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel-Bevern (1715–1797), who lived at Schönhausen Palace. The well-educated princess had a particular passion for literature.

Organizer: VHS City-WestTranslated with DeepL

Meeting point: Meeting place: Group ticket office in the Ehrenhof

Price info: The course fee includes admission to the castle.

Price: €12.00

Booking: or 030.9029 28873
Tickets cannot be purchased on site.

Next date:

• Date Thursday, 15/October/2026 15:00
• Venue Schloss Charlottenburg
• Address Spandauer Damm 22, 14059 Berlin-Charlottenburg