Luisenkirche, Charlottenburg

The Luisenkirche on Gierkeplatz in Berlin-Charlottenburg is a Protestant church with a baroque core from the early 18th century. Construction began in 1712 following designs from the circle of Andreas Schlueter, replacing an earlier half-timbered chapel. The plain stuccoed building was repeatedly altered in the 19th century, including a major redesign by Karl Friedrich Schinkel in 1823. It is named after Queen Luise of Prussia, locally venerated after her early death. Heavily damaged in World War II, it was rebuilt in simplified form and now carries protected monument status. Today the church anchors the parish life of old Charlottenburg around the triangular Gierkeplatz. Concerts and services run regularly, and the quiet square in front feels like a village green tucked into the modern city.