Anyone who steps onto Richardplatz in Berlin’s Neukölln district experiences a moment of absolute tranquility. While just a few meters away the traffic on Karl-Marx-Straße rages on, time seems to have stood still here. The spacious square with its distinctive cobblestones forms the heart of Rixdorf, a neighborhood that has preserved its rural character for centuries.
Of Knights Templar and Bohemian Refugees
The history of this special place dates back to the Middle Ages. In the 14th century, the Knights Templar founded the village of “Richardsdorp, ” which later became Rixdorf. Richardplatz served as the traditional village green. The settlement reached a decisive turning point in 1737, when King Frederick William I permitted Protestant religious refugees from Bohemia to settle there. This is how “Böhmisch-Rixdorf” came into being right next to the existing German village.
For a long time, however, Rixdorf was preceded by a dubious reputation. Around 1900, the town was considered the epitome of debauchery, seedy dive bars, and crime—an image that was a thorn in the side of the Prussian administration. To mark a fresh start, Rixdorf was officially renamed Neukölln in 1912 on the occasion of Emperor Wilhelm II’s 40th anniversary on the throne. Richardplatz, however, remained as a historical relic.
Historical Treasures in Rixdorf
The most striking building on the square is the Bethlehem Church. With its thick walls, the small 15th-century fieldstone church almost looks like a miniature fortress and serves as a reminder of the community’s humble beginnings. Just a few steps away is another highlight: the historic blacksmith shop. People have been working at the anvil here since 1797. The fact that a functioning blacksmith shop has survived in the middle of a modern metropolis borders on a miracle and turns the square into a living museum.
Cuisine between tradition and neighborhood culture
If all that history has whetted your appetite, you don’t have to leave the square. At Villa Rixdorf, a magnificent brick building right on the village green, Berlin hospitality is a top priority. Here you can embark on a culinary journey through time and enjoy authentic classics. The Königsberger Klopse, in particular, are a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, traditional Brandenburg cuisine.
A particularly lovely detail for all neighborhood connoisseurs: the former “Fräulein Pilz” snack bar is back in business. The small, charming kiosk is a true institution on Richardplatz and is as much a part of the townscape as the old trees. As a traditional snack bar, it once again entices customers with classics like currywurst and fries.
Whether for a quick bite or a brief chat: “Fräulein Pilz” embodies the neighborly spirit that makes this place so special. A visit to Richardplatz is thus far more than just sightseeing; it is an experience of an authentic Berlin that, despite constant change, has never forgotten its roots.
