Protestant Genezareth-Kirche Erkner (church)

The neo-Gothic limestone and granite church was completed in 1897, under the patronage of Empress Auguste Victoria. The land had been a gift from the piano maker Carl Bechstein from Berlin, who also provided further funding and donated an organ. His three sons donated the bells that continue to toll to this day. The name of the church that is a listed monument, refers to its location near Lake Dämeritzsee and the Sea of Galilee (called ‘See Genezareth’ in German) in the bible.

In 1944, the church was destroyed as Erkner was bombed. Only the foundation walls and the tower remained. It was rebuilt and inaugurated again in 1958. The organ that was built in 1961 is the biggest Sauer organ in the Oder-Spree region.

The Galilee Church is open for visitors every year, from May to September. During the opening hours, there is somebody at the church to give tours and answer questions. In addition to religious services, the church community also holds concerts and little exhibitions.

The square in front of the church is always very busy on Thursdays, as it is the venue of the town’s weekly market. Kestrels and jackdaws have also been using the church tower as a nesting site for many years.

The church is situated on Friedrichstrasse in the centre of town. The bus stop Erkner - Genezareth-Kirche is located directly at the church square. Further sights are accessible on foot from here.