Alter Kirchhof Schöneberg

Did the Brothers Grimm ever imagine their final resting place would be here, at Alter Kirchhof Schöneberg? This tranquil cemetery, nestled in the heart of Berlin, holds more tales than even they could spin. Alter Kirchhof Schöneberg isn’t just a place of rest. It’s a repository of Berlin’s vibrant past, a stage where history and culture intertwine. The story of Alter Kirchhof Schöneberg begins in 1856. The St. Matthew’s parish, finding themselves outgrowing their current burial arrangements, consecrated this ground. The first burial took place on March 25th of that year. It quickly became a sought-after final address. The cemetery expanded several times to accommodate the growing number of burials. By the late 19th century, the area surrounding the St. Matthew’s Church had become known as the “Privy Councilor’s Quarters.” Wealthy merchants, artists, scientists, and high-ranking officials resided there. Their elaborate mausoleums and monuments at Alter Kirchhof Schöneberg are testaments to their status. This cemetery weathered the storms of history, including the turbulent years of Nazi rule. Plans to demolish Alter Kirchhof Schöneberg as part of the Germania project were thankfully never fully realized. Some graves were moved, but the heart of the cemetery survived. Today, you can walk among the graves of giants. The Brothers Grimm, whose fairy tales continue to enchant generations, rest here. So does Rudolf Virchow, the father of modern pathology. The cemetery also holds the graves of composer Max Bruch, sculptor August Kiss, and many other notable figures. It is a place where stories linger in the air. Look for the memorial stone dedicated to the Widerstandskämpfer. These courageous individuals, including Claus von Stauffenberg, were executed for their role in the plot to assassinate Hitler. They were briefly buried here before being exhumed by the SS. Even in loss and remembrance, Alter Kirchhof Schöneberg tells a story of resilience. The “Garden of the Star Children” offers solace to those mourning the loss of infants. Alter Kirchhof Schöneberg invites you to reflect on the passage of time and the lives lived within its walls. It’s a place where the past speaks volumes.