Saint Peter und Paul Kirche (Saints Peter and Paul Church), Potsdam

The Saints Peter and Paul Church in Potsdam is a prominent Catholic church located at the eastern end of Brandenburger Strasse, linking it with Luisenplatz and the nearby Sanssouci Palace and Park. Originally, the site hosted a modest Baroque-style church, which lacked a tower and became inadequate for the growing congregation over time.

Construction of the current church began in 1867, with its cornerstone laid that year. The church was completed in 1870, and designed by architects August Stüler and Wilhelm Salzberg. While Stüler's initial design included two towers, after his death, Salzberg modified the plans to feature a single Italian-style bell tower instead. Additionally, the original semicircular apse was replaced with three conches, altering the church's appearance.

Built from yellow brick, the church is an eclectic blend of Byzantine and Romanesque architectural styles, with elements of classicism. Its slender brick tower is centered above the lower gables of the church, harmonizing with the surrounding two-story gabled houses. The church's layout, reminiscent of a Greek cross, draws comparisons to the Hagia Sophia, and its bell tower is modeled after the tower of San Zeno in Verona. The church houses bronze bells named Peter, Paul, Mary, and Benedict.

Inside, the church boasts lavish marble altars, with the main altar designed on multiple levels. Noteworthy are three famous Baroque paintings by Antoine Pesne, salvaged from the original church. The church’s organ, crafted by Schuke in 1936, features 41 registers. Additional interior highlights include the images of the Way of the Cross along the aisle walls and various ornamental murals.

Today, Saints Peter and Paul Church serves an active Catholic parish with over 6,000 members. Beyond religious services, the church is a hub for religious instruction and educational activities on topics like travel, architecture, and religion.