Berlin's Historical Churches Walking Tour (Self Guided), Berlin

Berlin boasts a diversity of important religious sights. Among the most acclaimed are the places of worship centuries old, such as the beautiful Neo-Classical style Nikolaikirche or the red-brick Gothic style Marienkirche (St. Mary’s Church), both dating back to the 1200s. Aside from being home to the best organ music in town, Marienkirche’s hall still contains numerous beautiful features and decorations such as the bronze baptismal font (1437) and the alabaster pulpit (1703). Nikolaikirche, in turn, holds a permanent exhibition, called “From the Base of the City to the Double Spire”, offering visitors insights into the history of the building and surrounding area.

While the Berliner Dom is small by the standards of cathedrals in other cities, it’s quite a delightful creation. The stonework and windows are wonderful, and the restored interior is worth spending some time taking in. One is able to descend in the crypt and see the monumental sarcophagi of the Hohenzollerns (most important ruling dynasty of Berlin and Prussia), or climb the stairs to nearly the top of the dome and enjoy terrific, unsurpassed panoramic views from the outside balcony.

Further along the way, Berlin’s largest protestant church, the Deutscher Dom has originally been erected in 1708 under King Friedrich I, who was intent in turning the city into a royal residence to rival Versailles. Not coincidentally, the building is best known as one of the three that make up Gendarmenmarkt square’s spectacular ensemble, including the Französischer Dom (French Cathedral) and the Konzerthaus. When visiting the square, one can’t help but notice the general symmetry between the Französischer and Deutscher cathedrals; however, they are not twin churches and have noticeable differences in the facade and portico areas if you take a closer look.

Take this self-guided walking tour to discover Berlin’s magnificent religious heritage and landmark temples at your own pace.