St. Nicholas' Church, Potsdam (must see)

Saint Nicholas' Church in Potsdam is a prominent Lutheran church situated on the Old Market Square (Alter Markt). Renowned as one of the most significant examples of German Classicism, the church was designed by the esteemed architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel and constructed between 1830 and 1837 to replace the original Saint Nicholas Church, which had burned down in 1795.

The church's design initially resembled a cube, and its Classicist style, with elements inspired by Christopher Wren’s Saint Paul’s Cathedral in London, reflects Italian influences. Its layout is based on a Greek Cross, with one arm extended by a half-round apse, and features a portal supported by four pillars reminiscent of an ancient temple. The church's appearance was dramatically transformed between 1843 and 1850 with the addition of the striking tambour and dome, designed by Ludwig Persius and Friedrich August Stüler, rising to 77 meters (253 feet) above the city’s rooftops. The interior of the church reaches a height of 52 meters (171 feet), and the church's distinctive dome has become a recognizable landmark visible throughout Potsdam.

Saint Nicholas' Church suffered significant damage during World War II due to British air raids and Soviet artillery fire. After years of reconstruction efforts, it was re-consecrated in 1981 by the Evangelical Parish of Saint Nicholas and has since reopened to the public. The church underwent further restoration, including structural measures completed in 2010 to protect against water penetration, using traditional materials and techniques to preserve the historic integrity of the building.

Today, Saint Nicholas' Church serves not only as a place of worship but also as a venue for concerts and public events. The active parish engages in the city’s public life with vibrant church services and high-quality church music. Visitors can also climb to a 42-meter (138-foot) viewing platform, offering spectacular views of Potsdam. The church's historical and architectural significance has earned it a place as a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrating its enduring legacy and cultural importance.