Imagine shadows stretching long across weathered tombstones. This is Old St. Matthew’s Churchyard. It is a place steeped in history and quiet contemplation right here in Schöneberg.
Old St. Matthew’s Churchyard is more than just a cemetery. It is a cultural landmark. Many prominent figures rest here. Their stories intertwine with the very soil beneath our feet.
Established in 1856, Old St. Matthew’s Churchyard served the St. Matthew parish. This parish was once one of Berlin’s wealthiest. The land was affordable. Its sloped terrain was unsuitable for farming. The nearby railway lines made it unattractive for housing.
Initially, the parish buried their dead in Kreuzberg. This changed with the development of Old St. Matthew’s Churchyard. By 1863, Old St. Matthew’s Churchyard needed expansion. Further enlargements occurred in 1866 and 1884. In 1890, only parishioners could be buried here. A new cemetery was established at Priesterweg. Yet, it never gained the popularity of Old St. Matthew’s Churchyard.
Many free-standing grave monuments arose. Mausoleums served as family graves. Prominent figures chose this as their final resting place.
Among those interred are the Brothers Grimm. Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm are known for fairy tales. These tales include Cinderella, Hansel and Gretel, and Snow White. Their work has enchanted generations. Rudolf Virchow rests here. He was a doctor and a politician. Virchow is considered the father of modern pathology. Max Bruch is buried here. He was a composer. Bruch wrote over 200 works.
Urban planning impacted Old St. Matthew’s Churchyard during the Nazi era. In 1938 and 1939, one-third of the northern part was dug up. Graves were leveled or reburied. The complete abolition was planned for 1941. World War II halted those plans. However, many graves were destroyed during the war.
After the war, a shift occurred. Preservation and restoration efforts began. Over 50 graves of prominent figures were recognized as honorary gravesites. The cemetery chapel was restored in 1987. It was initially built between 1906 and 1909.
Today, Old St. Matthew’s Churchyard offers a serene escape. It is a green space amidst the urban hustle. The Evanghelische Zwölf-Apostel-Kirchengemeinde cares for the site. The City of Berlin recognizes many graves as heritage sites.
Take a moment to wander through Old St. Matthew’s Churchyard. Reflect on the lives and legacies of those buried here. Notice the artistry in the tombstones. Appreciate the tranquility of this historic place. Old St. Matthew’s Churchyard is a testament to Berlin’s rich past and enduring spirit.