In the heart of Berlin’s Neukölln district stands the Magdalenenkirche. A silent witness to the passage of time, this magnificent church has seen Rixdorf transform into the bustling neighborhood we know today. The Magdalenenkirche isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a historical landmark, a cultural hub, and a testament to the architectural prowess of the late 19th century.
Built between 1877 and 1879, the Magdalenenkirche rose from the grounds of the old Rixdorf cemetery on Bergstraße, now Karl-Marx-Straße. The architect, Kreisbaumeister Bohl from Teltow, designed the church in the Neo-Gothic style, echoing the traditions of Schinkel, Stüler, and Adler. The church’s red brick facade, its towering western spire flanked by four smaller turrets, and the polygonal choir create a striking silhouette against the Berlin skyline. The church boasts a triple-nave layout, with wooden galleries and a high ceiling supported by a visible wooden roof structure.
The Magdalenenkirche remarkably survived World War II almost unscathed, a fortunate twist of fate that allowed it to continue serving the community. The post-war era, however, brought several renovations. In the 1970s, the fixed pews were replaced with flexible seating, making the space adaptable for various events. A more extensive restoration between 1984 and 1986 returned the church to its former glory. Today, it stands as a protected historical monument.
Inside the Magdalenenkirche, you can find traces of its rich past. A crucifix from the 16th or 17th century, originally from the old village church, adorns the altar. A painting of Martin Luther by Ernst Moritz Geyger, added in 1883, welcomes visitors near the entrance. Another artwork depicts the encounter between Mary Magdalene and the resurrected Jesus Christ. The church’s original color scheme, an ochre hue, was rediscovered and restored during the 1980s renovations.
The Magdalenenkirche’s organ, built by the renowned Berlin firm Ferdinand Dinse in 1879, also has a story to tell. Augmented by Sauer in 1909, the organ has endured the theft of numerous pipes during both World Wars. While these changes reflect the musical tastes of different eras, they have drifted from the original romantic sound. Plans are underway to restore the organ to its 1879 or 1909 state, preserving its historical significance. The three steel bells in the church tower date back to 1922, cast by the Bochumer Verein. These replaced the original bronze bells, which were sacrificed for the war effort in 1917.
The Magdalenenkirche stands as a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Rixdorf community. From its humble beginnings as a village church to its current role as a beloved landmark in the vibrant Neukölln district, the Magdalenenkirche continues to inspire and connect people. It’s not merely a building, but a living story, woven into the fabric of Berlin.