Schinkel-Kirche Petzow church

The idea to build the church also originated from Crown Prince Frederick William. The result was a delicate structure that is not only an eye-catcher itself but also offers an impressive panoramic view. It is already the second church in Petzow: the old half-timbered church in the park near the manor house had been severely damaged at the beginning of the 19th century and had to be replaced.

An important role was played by the estate owner Carl Friedrich August von Kaehne. As the owner of two brickworks, he provided building materials such as bricks, clinker, lime, and sand at cost price, thereby making a significant contribution to the financing.

The foundation stone was laid on October 4, 1840, after the foundations had already been completed. Construction began on August 19, 1841, and the church was ceremoniously consecrated on October 30, 1842—in the presence of the royal couple and under the direction of Bishop Daniel Neander.

Schinkel himself did not live to see its completion. Construction management was taken over by his successor Ludwig Persius, supported on site by Gustav Emil Prüfer as well as the government and building councillor Carl Redtel. However, involvement by August Stüler cannot be proven.

The old church was demolished in 1842. In its place, a sandstone cross was erected in 1856, following an order by Frederick William IV, to mark and preserve former church sites.

Theodor Fontane also visited Petzow later as part of his “Walks through the Mark Brandenburg.” At first, he was critical of the simple interior, which he felt preserved too few historical elements. However, his impression quickly changed: he was particularly impressed by the panoramic view from the tower, which made him forget his initial skepticism.

Today, the simplicity once perceived as “bare” is regarded as pleasant and clear. Since the 1980s, the church has been deconsecrated and serves as a cultural venue. Exhibitions, concerts, and events are held there regularly. Thanks to modern facilities, it can be used year-round.

In addition, the church is a popular venue for weddings and baptisms and functions as an external office of the registry office of Werder (Havel). Since its reopening in 1994, around 1,500 couples have been married there.