Passionskirche

Built of brick, the Passionskirche stands proudly on Marheinekeplatz. This neo-Romanesque gem was completed in 1908. The Passionskirche was designed by Theodor Astfalck for the Heilig-Kreuz-Gemeinde. It was intended as their third church in the Tempelhofer Vorstadt. The church’s design is unique. A square base with a central tower and four smaller towers at the corners. This gives the footprint the shape of a Greek cross, lending it a fortress-like appearance. Inside the Passionskirche, a magnificent Art Nouveau chandelier hangs from the ceiling. This vibrant, colorful glass fixture was a gift from the Siemens company. The altar area boasts intricate mosaics crafted by Puhl & Wagner. The Passionskirche miraculously survived World War II with most of its original features intact, despite suffering damage in 1944. Restoration work took place between 1951 and 1953. A new organ, built by Karl Ludwig Schuke, was installed. Later, in 1967, three large stained-glass windows were added. They depict scenes of Gethsemane, the Crucifixion, and the Deposition. In 1989, the Passionskirche received recognition. The Ferdinand-von-Quast-Medaille was awarded to the church for its innovative preservation efforts. Further renovations in 1992 made the church accessible to people with disabilities. Underfloor heating, installed beneath new terracotta tiles, allows for year-round use. Updated lighting, sound, and soundproofing systems were also added. The tower roofs were recovered with glazed tiles, replicating historical designs. The Passionskirche is not just a place of worship. It’s a vibrant community hub that hosts concerts, lectures, exhibitions, and discussions. Artists like No Angels, Tangerine Dream, Subway to Sally, Zakk Wylde, and Letzte Instanz have graced its stage. Anne Clark even recorded her live album “Psychometry” here. The Passionskirche also serves as a venue for the Finnish community in Berlin, holding their church services and housing the Finnlandzentrum.