Matthias-Claudius-Gemeinde

Tucked away in Berlin’s Heiligensee district, the Matthias-Claudius-Gemeinde has a story to tell. It all began with the expansion of public transport in the early 20th century. New tram lines and train stations connected Heiligensee to Tegel and Berlin. This led to a surge in new homes and a growing population. The quaint village church, Dorfkirche Heiligensee, could no longer accommodate everyone. A new community center was needed. So, in 1938, the Matthias-Claudius-Gemeinde was born. Designed by Jürgen Bachmann, its simple brick structure with a plastered base was dedicated on October 2nd, 1938. The church is more than just bricks and mortar. It represents the growth and spirit of the Heiligensee community. Initially part of the Dorfkirchengemeinde, the Matthias-Claudius-Gemeinde gained its independence on April 1st, 1957. The church itself is a fascinating blend of architectural styles. The main building has a saddle roof, a grand entrance, and a cross adorning the gabled peak. Beside it sits a building housing community rooms and offices, added in 1964 by Wolfgang Pingel. He also added an annex for the sacristy. Inside, the flat ceiling creates a unique basilica-like feel. It’s higher in the center than at the sides. The rectangular choir area and the opposite gallery complete the interior. The real gem, however, is the campanile. Attached to the sacristy, this reinforced concrete structure, with exposed brickwork, houses three bronze bells. The smallest bell, dating back to 1516, once hung in a street-facing bell gable. The two larger bells, cast in 1964, bear a special inscription: “Matthias Claudius – Gemeinde, Berlin-Heiligensee.” The Matthias-Claudius-Gemeinde stands as a testament to the evolving history of Heiligensee. It’s a place of worship, a community hub, and a symbol of the area’s growth and resilience.