A piece of authentic medieval history is hidden away in Berlin-Tempelhof. The Tempelhof Village Church (photo above from around 1930, colorized) dates back to a settlement of the famous Knights Templar around the year 1200 and once served as a mighty commander’s court.
Today, the well-preserved site attracts history buffs, myth hunters, and those seeking relaxation alike. We think you should definitely pay a visit to this historical gem in the south of the capital . (For more secret tunnels, check this out!)
The Knights’ Legacy in the Tempelhof Village Church: How the Templars Came to Berlin
The Tempelhof Village Church is the largest of its kind in all of Berlin in terms of floor area. Its origins are inextricably linked to the Ascanian conquest of the region. The Ascanian dynasty called upon the legendary Order of the Knights Templar to secure and settle their newly conquered territory.
From this center of power (the so-called commandery), the Knights Templar directed the fortunes of Tempelhof, Mariendorf, and Marienfelde. To this day, the name “Tempelhof” bears witness to the legacy of the white knights with the red cross.
After the Order of the Knights Templar was dissolved by the Pope in 1312, the lands passed to the Order of St. John. It wasn’t until severe destruction 600 years later, during World War II, that the church was restored to its current, rebuilt state.
The Legend of the Underground Templar Tunnel
Since the 19th century, a persistent and adventurous legend has circulated that there is an underground passage leading from the Tempelhof Village Church (photo above, ca. 1890, colorized) to the neighboring villages. To this day, the legendary Templar Tunnel has not been discovered.
The idea of a cave system directly beneath the church still fires the imagination to this day. Was there a secret escape route in case of sieges, or a hiding place for the infamous, never-found Templar treasure?
A picturesque idyll between Lehnepark and Alter Park
Right around the church, the historic churchyard awaits your exploration. Surrounded by massive stone walls, venerable Tempelhof families rest here beneath ancient tombs.
The church is the centerpiece of four green spaces: Lehnepark, Alter Park, Bosepark, and Franckepark. After exploring the historical sites, why not relax on a bench and enjoy the view of the medieval walls?
How to get there: By public transit, take the U6 to the Alt-Tempelhof station. From there, a short walk will take you into the park landscape and the world of the knights.
📍 Tempelhof Village Church, Parkstraße 5, 12103 Berlin
📆 Daily (churchyard and parks open all day)
⏳ About 1–2 hours (including a walk through the parks)
💵 Free
