Nikolsburger Platz

Hidden within the bustling city of Berlin lies Nikolsburger Platz. It’s a place with a fascinating history, more than meets the eye. Nikolsburger Platz started as part of a grand vision. In 1870, Johann Anton Wilhelm von Carstenn designed it as the southwestern corner of his “Carstenn-Figur.” This was a unique urban ensemble that included other prominent squares like Fasanenplatz, Nürnberger Platz, and Prager Platz. Originally, Nikolsburger Platz was called Magdeburger Platz starting in 1876. The name changed to Nikolsburger Platz in 1888, commemorating the preliminary peace treaty signed in Nikolsburg (now Mikulov in the Czech Republic) on July 26, 1866. This treaty ended the Austro-Prussian War. Nikolsburger Platz has an interesting connection to Prager Platz. The 1866 peace agreement is often called the “Peace Treaty of Prague and Nikolsburg.” The two bishoprics of Magdeburg and Halberstadt, whose names were once associated with these squares, shared a long history tied to the Hohenzollerns and Protestantism. In the early 20th century, Nikolsburger Platz transformed into a green oasis. It boasted wooden benches and a beautiful bronze fountain. Designed by Cuno von Uechtritz-Steinkirch and installed in 1910, the fountain featured a charming Gänseliesel (goose girl) with her goose. That same year, the impressive Cecilienschule, designed by Otto Herrnring in neo-Renaissance style, was completed on the edge of the square. Sadly, the original Gänseliesel fountain was melted down by the Nazis in 1940 for the war effort. During the 1960s, raised flower beds in a checkerboard pattern were added to the square. A replica of the beloved Gänseliesel fountain, created by Harald Haacke, was installed in 1988. In 1999, the green space was redesigned again, incorporating benches and perennials, reminiscent of its historical layout. Nikolsburger Platz even played a role in children’s literature. Erich Kästner, who lived nearby, featured the square in his 1929 book “Emil and the Detectives.” It was here that Emil and his friends planned their pursuit of the “Man with the Stiff Hat.” Nikolsburger Platz has seen much change over the years, from its grand beginnings as part of Carstenn’s vision to its role in capturing the imagination of children and adults alike.