Restored Atmosphere in Hohenzollern Tomb in Berlin Cathedral
The Hohenzollern Crypt, a significant historical landmark beneath Berlin Cathedral, is undergoing a major renovation project since April 2020. With a total cost of 29 million euros, this is the largest cathedral construction project since the post-World War II rebuild. The renovation aims to preserve the crypt, which houses the tombs of the Hohenzollern family members, key figures in Prussian and German history, and improve the climate within the crypt for the comfort of all visitors.
The original construction of the crypt and cathedral began in 1352, with the cathedral taking 169 years to complete. Over the centuries, the crypt has undergone various restorations, with the most recent improvements being made in June 2025. These updates include better accessibility features for visitors, such as improved pathways, informative exhibitions, and modern facilities.
One of the highlights of the renovated Hohenzollern Crypt is the Historical Timeline Exhibition inside the crypt, allowing visitors to walk through and learn about the dynastic and architectural history of the Hohenzollern family. Another notable addition is an exhibition curated by Birgit Walter, focusing on burial culture, child mortality, and the history of the Hohenzollerns.
The air conditioning system installed during the renovation has significantly improved the air quality in the crypt, addressing issues of moisture and heat that had caused damage to some of the 500-year-old coffins before the renovation. The construction site has also made the crypt airy and bright after moving the 91 coffins to a secret depot.
The renovated Hohenzollern Crypt is expected to reopen to the public in early 2026, welcoming the first visitors. The renovation project reflects a continued commitment to maintain and celebrate the legacy of the Hohenzollern family within the Berliner Dom complex. Before its closure, around 765,000 people visited the cathedral and the crypt in 2019. With the completion of the renovation, it is hoped that the Hohenzollern Crypt will continue to attract visitors and serve as a testament to the long-standing influence of the Hohenzollern dynasty in the region.
[1] Berliner Dom (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.berlinerdom.de/en/ [2] Hohenzollern Crypt (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.berlinerdom.de/en/berliner-dom/hohenzollern-crypt/
The renovated Hohenzollern Crypt, a significant historical landmark beneath Berlin Cathedral, will not only preserve the legacy of the Hohenzollern family but also offer a modern take on interior-design and sustainable-living. With improved heating and air conditioning systems, the climate within the crypt is now more comfortable for all visitors, aligning with the principles of home-and-garden and lifestyle. The Historical Timeline Exhibition inside the crypt offers insights into the dynastic and architectural history of the Hohenzollern family, demonstrating how architecture and interiors can showcase a nation's history, making it an attractive destination for visitors interested in lifestyle and home-and-garden-focused sustainable-living.
