Before Berlin even existed Molkenmarkt was already a bustling marketplace. This square is Berlin’s oldest. It’s been a central trading place since around 1200 AD. Imagine the medieval merchants bartering goods here. It was the crossroads of several trade routes. The area even saw trade before Berlin’s first documented mention in 1244.
Molkenmarkt literally means whey market. Some believe it’s named after dairy products. Others think it’s because of nearby watermills on the Spree River. The name changed several times. It was once called Olde Markt or Alter Markt Old Market.
By the late 13th century the market became too small. A new marketplace near St Mary’s Church arose. It quickly became more popular. Molkenmarkt was then called Old Market. In 1685 Elector Frederick III closed the market. He used it for military parades. The area remained densely populated until World War II. Strategic bombing destroyed much of Berlin’s city center. Nazi authorities had also cleared buildings for their Welthauptstadt Germania plans. This was to be a huge administrative center around the Altes Stadthaus.
After the war East Berlin’s city administration wanted a car-friendly city center. They widened Grunerstrasse. This eight-lane road runs right through Molkenmarkt. Today it’s mostly a busy traffic junction. Only a few historic buildings remain. These include the Altes Stadthaus and Palais Schwerin.
Archaeological excavations have uncovered fascinating finds. These include a Japanese short sword. There are also medieval wooden cellars and baroque vaults. These discoveries showcase 800 years of Berlin’s history. The Berlin Senate plans to renovate Molkenmarkt. They aim to redesign the square according to its historic state. Narrower streets and new buildings are planned. The goal is to restore Molkenmarkt to its former glory. To bring back the heart of ancient Berlin.