How about stepping back in time to discover a unique church? We are standing before St. Bernhard Kirche. This Roman Catholic church is located in Berlin’s Dahlem district. St. Bernhard Kirche stands as a testament to architectural and spiritual resilience.
Built between 1932 and 1934, the church was designed by Wilhelm Fahlbusch. His architectural vision embraced the New Objectivity style. This style is characterized by its clean lines and functional design. The building quickly became a landmark. It offered a place of worship for the growing Catholic community in Dahlem.
Now, take a closer look at the building’s exterior. Notice the brick construction. The church faces north. The bell tower and its entrance are directly on the street. The tower features a statue of St. Bernhard of Clairvaux. Otto Hitzberger created this statue from white artificial stone. The statue is larger than life. Four expressive Evangelists are above the portal and entrances.
St. Bernhard Kirche suffered significant damage during World War II. It was not until 1952 that the church was restored. The community worked hard to bring their beloved church back to life.
Step inside St. Bernhard Kirche. The interior is just as striking as the exterior. The church has a three-aisle nave with flat ceilings. The apse is illuminated indirectly. This creates a serene and contemplative atmosphere.
Look around at the details. The altar is adorned with a bronze cross. Jacob Hübel created it. Marble adorns the rear wall. Statues of the Immaculata, St. Joseph, and St. Bernhard stand here. St. Bernhard is depicted as a traveling preacher. These elements create a powerful presence.
The stained-glass windows add color to the space. Paul Corazolla created these windows. They fill the nave with light. Visit the memorial chapel in the west aisle. Here, you will find a colorful glass window. Felix Senger designed it. It depicts the Stations of the Cross. Sebastian Putz created the fourteen bronze reliefs of the Stations of the Cross. He was the father of Ernst Putz. The architect himself is portrayed on the fifth station’s relief. He is depicted as Simon of Cyrene.
The church’s organ was built in 1962. Gebrüder Stockmann built it. It features three manuals, a pedal, and 29 registers. The sound from this organ fills the space.
St. Bernhard Kirche is more than just a building. It embodies faith, art, and history. It reflects the dedication of the community. In 2010, St. Bernhard became a filial church of the Rosenkranz-Basilika. The parish was once part of this basilica.
Before we move on, consider the architectural style. St. Bernhard Kirche exemplifies the New Objectivity movement. Its design emphasizes simplicity. It also highlights functionality. The use of brick reflects the architectural traditions of the Brandenburg region. The design connects the church to the local heritage.
St. Bernhard Kirche is a protected monument. It stands as a reminder of Berlin’s past. The church continues to serve as a place of worship. It also provides a space for reflection. Its doors are reliably open to all. St. Bernhard Kirche welcomes visitors from all walks of life.