Nikolaiviertel

The Nikolaiviertel (Nikolai Quarter) is a neighborhood on the eastern bank of the Spree River in Berlin. The district is located in the Berlin-Mitte area, not far from Alexanderplatz. It is the oldest residential area in Berlin and was part of East Berlin until 1990. In the center of the district stands the Nikolaikirche.

The original buildings in the area were completely destroyed during World War II. The remnants were then cleared, and the area remained vacant for over 30 years. Only the ruins of the Nikolaikirche served as a reminder of old times. On the occasion of the 750th anniversary of the city of Berlin, the East Berlin city government developed a plan for reconstruction. The neighborhood was rebuilt in an old style, but a complete reconstruction was not carried out. This is clearly visible in the facades, which were largely built using the prefab method, known as Plattenbau. After the reconstruction, the area was also mockingly referred to as 'socialist Disneyland'. Today, the area is known for its many traditional German restaurants and bars.

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