Zionskirche

The Zion Church stands on a quiet square between the districts of Berlin-Mitte and Prenzlauer Berg. Located near the former Berlin Wall, it is a historic site closely linked to recent German history. The Protestant Zion congregation feels connected to its location and its tradition, while at the same time opening its doors to political and cultural issues, both local and global. In addition to innovative forms of worship and prayer, the Zion Church, under the motto “Open Church,” is a place for a wide range of events as well as diverse, critical, and conscious thinking, seeing, and experiencing. The interior is currently undergoing careful renovation. As part of the “KlangRaumZion” project, the installation of an innovative organ is intended to develop the Zion Church into a center for new music. 

History of Zionskirche

Donated by King Wilhelm I for the rapidly growing working-class district, the Zion Church was completed in 1873 after a long construction period under the leadership of architect August Orth. Severely damaged during World War II, the building was only provisionally restored until 1953, and it was not until 1993 that a renovation process began that is still ongoing. Zion Church has always been a place of resistance: Dietrich Bonhoeffer worked here for a short time, as did representatives of the Confessing Church during the Nazi dictatorship. In the mid-1980s, the congregation openly sympathized with the political opposition in the GDR and housed the Environmental Library.  

Profile

Cultural Space

As an independent venue, Zionskirche offers space for a wide-ranging, curated cultural program. The focus is on contemporary and early music, experimental and interdisciplinary formats, but also classical chamber music series, vocal music in smaller ensembles, modern music and dance theater, exhibitions, experimental performances, and projects for young artists. Applications for the cultural program, which is curated by the artistic director, should be sent by email to kultur@elisabeth.berlin .The criteria for accepting cultural projects can be found here. 

Church and Spiritual Services 

The Zion Church belongs to the Protestant parish of Weinberg. Services, devotions, baptisms, weddings, and parish events are held there regularly.

Event Venue

In consultation with the parish council, smaller events can be held as well as receptions after concerts, sound recordings, film and television shoots, and photo shoots. We do not consider requests for private parties. Further information can be found on the event spaces page.