Kulturzentrum Anatolischer Aleviten

Stepping into the heart of Kreuzberg, we find ourselves before the Kulturzentrum Anatolischer Aleviten. This unassuming building holds within its walls a vibrant tapestry of culture and faith. The Kulturzentrum Anatolischer Aleviten wasn’t always a beacon for the Alevi community. Originally built in the 1950s, it served as a New Apostolic Church. Its single-story structure, adorned with large hall windows facing Leuschnerdamm, and bright plaster with a three-winged entrance at the front, still echoes this past. Around 1999, the building underwent a transformation when it became the property of the Kulturzentrum Anatolischer Aleviten. A two-story, narrow annex was added, expanding its capacity to serve the community. The architecture of the Kulturzentrum Anatolischer Aleviten reflects the Alevi desire for a versatile communication space. It not only caters to their cultural and social needs but also extends a welcoming hand to all those who share this vibrant neighborhood. The name “Alevi” itself derives from Ali, the nephew and son-in-law of the Prophet Mohammed. Alevism is characterized by the coexistence of diverse religious and cultural traditions. The Kulturzentrum Anatolischer Aleviten stands as a testament to this rich heritage, affiliated with the umbrella organization, Federation of Alevi Communities (AABF). The Alevi people, numbering around 20 million, primarily reside in Anatolia, Turkey. Their way of life is rooted in fraternity, liberality, and the fundamental equality of all individuals, including men and women. The Kulturzentrum Anatolischer Aleviten actively promotes these values through various activities. The center focuses on nurturing and preserving the Alevi faith and Anatolian cultural values. It engages in youth and women’s programs, promotes general and vocational education, and fosters intercultural and interreligious dialogues, along with sports activities. A diverse range of courses, events, and services are offered, catering to people of all ages. The Kulturzentrum Anatolischer Aleviten is more than just a building; it is a living, breathing testament to the enduring spirit of the Alevi community in Berlin. It embodies their commitment to inclusivity, cultural preservation, and the pursuit of knowledge, serving as a bridge between tradition and the contemporary world.