Challenges Continue for Garnisonkirche Reconstruction Amid Financial Uncertainties

The reconstruction of the Garnisonkirche in Potsdam remains in a delicate phase, as financial concerns resurface just months after its opening. A loan of five million euros, alongside hopes for additional funding, has sparked renewed discussions about the project's financial viability.

Pfarrer Jan Kingreen, who oversees the Garnisonkirche Foundation, emphasized that the project is not facing insolvency, asserting that liquidity is currently stable. However, the foundation is seeking to defer the initial repayment of the significant loan, which is set to be repaid over thirty years. Critics have raised concerns regarding potential operational deficits since the project's inception, particularly given the approximately 42 million euro cost of the new tower.

Christian Stäblein, the regional bishop, advocates for patience, urging stakeholders to allow time for the newly established site to integrate into tourist networks. He noted that by the end of the year, a clearer picture of the financial situation would emerge, as the Landeskirche and the Evangelical Church in Germany have provided the loan.

Since its inauguration in August, the Garnisonkirche tower, which features exhibitions, a viewing platform, and educational programs, is still in a trial period according to Kingreen. He stated that it is too early to determine the success of visitor turnout, the level of donations received, or savings on operational costs. The tower has primarily experienced a low visitor turnout during the winter months, traditionally a slower season.

As the tourist season begins with Easter approaching, Kingreen aims to attract more tour groups to enhance visitor numbers. In 2024, the foundation had projected annual attendance to reach between 80,000 and 90,000 visitors.

Stäblein acknowledged that finding a sustainable solution for the loan repayment will require time. Nonetheless, he believes that the Garnisonkirche has the potential to become a significant center for educational activities regarding peace and democracy. The tower currently hosts a multimedia exhibition entitled "Faith, Power, and Military," which critically examines the church's historical context and its connections to the National Socialist regime.

As part of its educational outreach, the Garnisonkirche plans to initiate discussions on wars and conflicts, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The foundation is advocating for institutional funding to cover operational costs, similar to financial support received by museums and educational institutions. This financial assistance could enable a reduction in entry fees for visitors.

Kingreen highlighted the need for increased personnel to expand educational offerings that have proven popular among visitors. He emphasized that the current staff of five is insufficient to meet the demands of the programming. Stäblein has expressed understanding of the need for funding, suggesting that the inquiries regarding a foundational financial model for the project are valid. However, the final decision will rest with the governing bodies of the Landeskirche.

The Garnisonkirche project has faced significant contention over the years. Historically, the church was the site of the 1933 state ceremony marking the opening of the Reichstag, where significant political figures of the time made notable appearances. The recent inauguration of the tower faced protests from critics who labeled it a "Nazi church."