The Nikolai Quarter

You are now in the heart of Nikolaiviertel, the oldest neighbourhood in Berlin. In front of you, the Saint Nicholas Church was founded in the 1230s, making it the oldest religious building to have survived in the capital to this day. At the time, medieval Berlin was primarily a trading settlement, and the Romanesque church was named in honor of Nicholas of Myra, the patron saint of merchants. Over the centuries, the building was modified and expanded. In the 14th century, a Gothic choir was added as well as naves, a typical depiction of “hall churches” and a common choice in Germany at the time. In a hall church, all interior sections are of equal height. Today, St. Nicholas Church welcomes the city’s history museum, as it was deconsecrated in 1938 and transformed into a cultural spot after its post-World War II restoration. In 1989, it also served as a gathering place for the main opposition to the communist regime of East Germany. But let’s go back to the 13th century. The settlement of Berlin grew around this very church, simultaneously with the neighboring settlement of Cölln that developed on an island on the Spree River. The two eventually merged in 1307, but over time, Berlin expanded and overshadowed Cölln, eventually giving its name to the entire city. The area suffered immensely from bombings in 1944, so much that its full demolishment was considered many times. However, during preparations for Berlin’s 750th anniversary in 1981, it was decided to be restored instead. The district was reconstructed to resemble the original as closely as possible aiming to create the illusion of a historic neighbourhood in old Berlin. And it was a success! With its medieval cobblestone streets, elegant facades, and numerous bars and restaurants, Saint Nicholas Quarter is now one of the most charming and beloved areas of the capital, as well as a delightful place to explore.