Klausenerplatz

Hidden in plain sight, Klausenerplatz whispers tales of transformation. This vibrant square near Charlottenburg Palace has seen it all, from royal hooves to children’s laughter. Klausenerplatz wasn’t always a peaceful haven. It began its life in 1844 as a dusty training ground for the Garde du Corps. Imagine the clatter of hooves and the shouts of commands echoing across the square. This continued until 1889 when the Garde du Corps abandoned the site. The square was then envisioned as a grand “Schmuckplatz,” an ornamental space surrounded by the growing city, according to James Hobrecht’s 1862 urban plan. In 1887, it was renamed Friedrich-Karl-Platz, in honor of Prince Friedrich Karl Nikolaus von Preußen, a hero of the Franco-Prussian War. Klausenerplatz showcases a captivating blend of historical influences. The initial design, likely by city garden inspector Ludwig Neßler in 1893, featured rows of linden trees and diagonal paths. A marketplace thrived on the west side, complete with a public convenience. On the east side, a sheltered rest area offered benches for weary travelers. Then, between 1921 and 1922, landscape architect Erwin Barth reimagined Klausenerplatz. He removed the diagonal paths to create a large, traffic-free play area in the center. He also added elevated seating areas at the corners, accented by Lombardy poplars, offering panoramic views of the square. Barth’s design thoughtfully separated quiet zones from the children’s play areas. The flowerbeds, four meters wide, were carefully planned. Their design was even published in the 1927 book “Unsere Freiland-Stauden”. During World War II, an air-raid shelter was built on the southern half of the square. The playground was relocated to the bunker’s roof, where it remained until 1986. Post-war, garden director Walter Hilzheimer restored the square. In 1950, it was renamed Klausenerplatz to honor Erich Klausener, the leader of the Catholic Action group in Berlin, who was murdered by the Nazis. Even amidst its peaceful atmosphere, Klausenerplatz has been a site of activism and change. In 1987, Germany’s first birthing center opened at Klausenerplatz 19. Later, it was moved to a nearby location. The same building housed the Freie Theateranstalten. The area surrounding Klausenerplatz also boasts a rich history. It largely survived the war, retaining its turn-of-the-century charm. In the 1970s, a local residents’ initiative successfully advocated for a sensitive urban renewal project. This ensured the preservation of the neighborhood’s unique character. Klausenerplatz continues to be a vibrant community hub. It hosts a bustling weekly market, bringing fresh produce and local goods to the neighborhood. Today, Klausenerplatz stands as a testament to resilience, transformation, and community spirit.