Kätheplatz

Nestled in the heart of Prenzlauer Berg, Kätplatz, or Kollwitzplatz as it’s formally known, whispers tales of a bygone era. Kätplatz isn’t just a square. It’s a living testament to the life and legacy of Käthe Kollwitz, the renowned German graphic artist and sculptor. Käthe Kollwitz, whose name graces this very square, resided nearby for a significant portion of her life, in a house on Weissenburger Straße. Her presence, along with that of her husband, Dr. Karl Kollwitz, is deeply intertwined with the history of this place. Kätplatz, originally named Wörther Platz after the Battle of Wörth, became Kollwitzplatz in 1947, a tribute to the artist who captured the human condition with such raw emotion. The square itself, a triangular expanse bordered by Kollwitzstraße, Knaackstraße, and Wörther Straße, covers approximately 6,000 square meters. Imagine this bustling square in the late 19th century, a newly developed residential area in the Wilhelminian period. The square, then Wörther Platz, showcased the typical ornate design of the era, likely envisioned by city garden director Hermann Mächtig. While much of the surrounding area suffered damage during World War II, Kätplatz and its surrounding buildings remained largely intact. This preservation allows us a glimpse into the past, a window into the world Käthe Kollwitz knew. In the center of Kätplatz stands a bronze sculpture of Käthe Kollwitz, created by Gustav Seitz. It’s a popular spot, especially for children who often climb on it. The square also houses a replica of Kollwitz’s sculpture “Mother with Two Children.” The original sculpture, located elsewhere in Prenzlauer Berg, serves as a further reminder of Kollwitz’s artistic and emotional connection to this area. Today, Kätplatz thrives as a vibrant community hub. A weekly market, bustling with vendors and locals, takes place here every Saturday. An eco-market sets up shop on Thursdays, and during Advent, the square transforms into a festive Christmas market. Kätplatz, a place of historical significance and artistic inspiration, continues to resonate with the spirit of Käthe Kollwitz.