Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church

Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church which includes a church or cathedral, religious elements and interior views
Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church
Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church showing interior views, a church or cathedral and religious elements
Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church
Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church featuring a church or cathedral, interior views and religious aspects


The ruins of a Protestant church stand next to a modern place of worship, creating a scene that captures the destruction, and the regrowth, that comes from war.

Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, also known as Gedächtniskirche, is a famous landmark in Charlottenburg, the centre of former West Berlin. Allied forces bombed the late 19th-century neo-Romanesque church in 1943 during World War II. A new octagonal church tower was built beside the ruins of the church in the early 1960s. Visit the old church tower and the modern bell tower to see a symbol of Berlin’s destruction and determination to rebuild.

Kaiser Wilhelm II built the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church in honour of his grandfather, the former German Emperor and King of Prussia. Admire the church’s ornate details and notice how the building contrasts with the surrounding modern shopping district. The church was almost burned to the ground after it was bombed in 1943. The damaged entrance hall and spire, known locally as the “hollow tooth,” was preserved and two new structures were built on either side of the ruins.

Explore the modern church and its foyer to discover the eye-catching interiors of the building. The octagonal church features a beautiful honeycomb of blue, red and yellow-colored glass inlays. See the figure of Christ and the gilt-silver and crystal-encrusted cross on the altar.

On the other side of the ruins, find the immense 173.8-foot (53-metre) bell tower and its chapel. The belfry has six bronze bells, which can be heard ringing for different festive, worship or commemorative occasions.

Visit the memorial hall housed inside the damaged original church spire. See intricate biblical mosaics and bas-relief sculptures. Discover 16 panels that represent the church’s history and its destruction, as well as symbols portraying war and peace.

Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church is located in Breitscheidplatz in Berlin’s Charlottenburg district, near to the Berlin Zoologischer Garten. Entry to the church is free. Services are scheduled twice a day on Sundays. The church is open daily and regularly hosts concerts, such as choral and organ recitals, in the modern structure.

Join a free 30-minute tour around the church and memorial or book a group tour for a small fee. Check the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church official website for details on the times and departure point for the free tours.

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Things to do near Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church

When visiting the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church in Berlin, make sure to explore the surrounding attractions, which include vibrant art galleries, engaging theatre performances, and an array of shopping opportunities. This iconic site not only offers a glimpse into history but also a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the area.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Kaufhaus des Westens, only 186m from the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, offering a variety of luxury goods. If you're up for a drive, the Mall of Berlin, 1.2km away, provides a bustling atmosphere with diverse shops and entertainment options.

Recreation

Experience the serene ambience of the Berliner Philharmonie, a renowned concert hall offering exceptional musical performances just 1.2km away from the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church. Alternatively, enjoy vibrant shows at Tempodrom and Konzerthaus Berlin, both also located 1.2km away, ensuring an unforgettable entertainment experience.

Adventure

Experience breathtaking aerial views with Berlin Hi-Flyer, located 1.2km from Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church. For an adrenaline rush, try Lasergame Berlin, also 1.2km away, where you can immerse yourself in thrilling laser tag battles. For karting enthusiasts, EFK - Kart - & Eventcenter Berlin is 2.5km away, offering exciting races.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church is vibrant, with options like Theatre of the West just 186m away, offering a mix of culture and romance. Schiller Theatre, 559m away, and Schaubuehne, 621m away, both provide captivating performances in an enchanting atmosphere.

Find the best attractions near Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church

Visiting the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church in Berlin offers a delightful blend of cultural experiences and family-friendly activities. Explore nearby art museums, charming streets, and other local attractions that showcase the rich history of this iconic church. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the area's vibrant atmosphere while discovering the significance of the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial and its stunning architecture.

  • Kurfürstendamm: A bustling avenue renowned for its vibrant city atmosphere, Kurfürstendamm is lined with upscale shops, cafes, and restaurants. This iconic street is perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering a taste of Berlin's modern lifestyle and a chance to indulge in some retail therapy.
  • Potsdamer Platz: A striking example of modern urban development, Potsdamer Platz features impressive skyscrapers, cinemas, and lively squares. This dynamic area showcases Berlin's transformation since reunification, making it a must-visit for those seeking the city's contemporary pulse.
  • Brandenburg Gate: An emblem of Berlin's history and culture, the Brandenburg Gate is a magnificent neoclassical monument. It stands as a symbol of peace and unity, attracting visitors with its rich historical significance and stunning architecture.

Best time to go to Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church

The best time to visit Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July and August are its hottest month on average. At the time of August, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain (dry).

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January33.6°F (0.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February35.1°F (1.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
March41.2°F (5.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
April49.8°F (9.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May57.6°F (14.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June65.7°F (18.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July68.5°F (20.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August68.5°F (20.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
September61.0°F (16.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October51.6°F (10.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November43.0°F (6.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
December36.3°F (2.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church

To save on your visit to the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church in Berlin, consider travelling in January, August, or November when hotel prices are typically lower. Booking about a month in advance or checking last-minute deals on Expedia can yield better rates, especially if you stay on a Sunday. Utilise Expedia's tools to compare prices and find eco-friendly accommodation options. Additionally, consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for further discounts. Don’t overlook free activities in the area, as Berlin offers numerous cultural experiences at no cost.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church are January, August and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially cut costs by combining your hotel reservation at the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.