- Prior to the inauguration of the garrison church - promotions for tranquility
Prior to the unveiling of the debated Garrison Church Tower in Potsdam on August 22, ex-Bishop Wolfgang Huber, a significant figure within the Evangelical Church, advocated for the establishment of a peace zone. "This tower functions as an architectural emblem for the city of Potsdam, while simultaneously obtaining a new purpose, one focused on peace, fairness, and democracy," Huber, who served as the previous Bishop of Berlin and the former President of the Council of the Evangelical Church in Germany, stated during an interview with "Tagesspiegel."
Thursday's opening will feature a traditional event, in which Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, as the protector of the controversial restoration of the historic Garrison Church, will participate. Constructed in 1735, this military church met its end during World War II and was demolished in 1968 under the orders of the SED leadership.
Various organizations, including "Potsdam Without a Garrison Church" and the "Learning Site Garrison Church" of the Christian Martin Niemöller Foundation, have voiced their opposition to the restoration, viewing it as a manifestation of militarism and worrying that it could serve as a gathering spot for far-right extremists. On March 19, 1933, Reich President Paul von Hindenburg shook hands with the new Reich Chancellor Adolf Hitler at the "Day of Potsdam" ceremony held in front of the church.
Potsdam's Mayor Mike Schubert (SPD) views the Garrison Church Tower as a symbol of resolve. "It signifies our commitment to a critical examination of our historical legacy and signifies, in close proximity to the computing center developed during DDR times, breaks and alterations in our urban development," Schubert stated. He advocated for building bridges and moving toward one another.
Researchers will soon explore potential use ideas for the site, which encompasses the reconstructed tower in addition to zones of the former data processing center currently used by artists and cultural creators. Huber and Schubert devised a compromise that, alongside the tower, also includes a "House of Democracy" for the city council in place of the church nave. The foundation anticipates welcoming 80,000 to 90,000 annual visitors to the tower. The overall construction expenses amounted to around 42 million euros, with the federal government providing approximately 25 million euros.
A lasting exhibit titled "Faith, Power, and Military" will explore the church's intricate history. Starting August 23, guests will have the opportunity to behold a panoramic view from the 57-meter-tall observation deck for the first time.
The Garrison Church Tower, with its new purpose focused on peace and democracy, is a testament to the architecture's transformative potential in the city of Potsdam. Despite the controversy surrounding its restoration, Potsdam's Mayor Mike Schubert sees it as a symbol of resolve, representing the city's commitment to examining its historical legacy and promoting unity.
