Shrouded in a sense of calm, Sankt Konrad von Parzham stands before us. This Catholic church is a serene landmark in Berlin’s Falkenberg district.
Sankt Konrad von Parzham was built between 1938 and 1940. Josef Bachem designed it. His design reflects the Heimatschutz architecture style. It incorporates South German elements.
The church’s construction was quite special. It was a gift to Konrad Graf von Preysing. This gift celebrated his 25th anniversary of priestly ordination. The parish council of St. Josef in WeiSensee oversaw the construction.
Let’s delve into the church’s architectural details. The building has a Z-shape. It features plastered brickwork. Sankt Konrad von Parzham includes a rectangular hall church and a parish house. Instead of a bell tower, there is a roof turret. It sits above the gable on the street-facing facade. The turret is topped with a Bavarian onion dome. Two narrow arched windows adorn the gable. Below, a red-bordered portal welcomes visitors.
Inside Sankt Konrad von Parzham, the design is striking. Pointed arches divide the barrel vault. This creates a late-expressionist atmosphere. Egbert Lammers created the stained glass windows. They depict symbols of the Apostles. Ruth Schaumann painted the altarpiece. The baptismal font is by Edwin Scharff. It is made of diabase. The font depicts the Baptism of Jesus in a neoclassical style.
The altar area was redesigned in 1985. The new altar matches the side altars. Relics of Saint Therese of Lisieux and Elisabeth of the Trinity are housed in the altar. In 1986, the church was repainted. The gallery, which holds the organ by Johannes Klais Orgelbau, received a new railing in the Gothic style.
Sankt Konrad von Parzham became a branch church of Heilig Kreuz in Alt-Hohenschonhausen in 2004. This happened after the two neighboring communities merged.
Sankt Konrad von Parzham is more than just a building. It’s a place of history, art, and faith. Its unique architecture and rich history make it a special site. It embodies the spirit of its namesake, Saint Konrad von Parzham. He was known for his wisdom and holiness.