Kolkviertel

The area Behnitz, mostly known as the Kolk, is the oldest settlement in Spandau’s old town centre, first recorded in the 13th century. When you enter the district via Hoher Steinweg, you walk along the last section of the Spandau’s city wall that still survives in its original six-metre-high form. The houses opposite were built in the 18th and 19th centuries and the facade of the building at number 5 features two statues of rulers from the Hohenzollern era.

In the narrow street called Kolk, most of the half-timbered houses have been lovingly restored. Between them is the Alte Kolkschänke, nowadays a dilapidated little building – but one with a particular significance: for a whole century it was the local pub used by the soldiers stationed in the Zitadelle. It only closed a few years ago. The little Marienkirche at the end of Kolk is Berlin’s second-oldest Catholic church built after the Reformation. It stands on a historic site: excavations by its northern wall not only brought to light a 14th-century well, but also signs of a stone age settlement.

Spandau's old town can be easily explored with the free audio guide. Information on the audio guide is available on site at the tourist information office.

Find out more about the city’s neighbourhoods with our Going Local Berlin app.