Berlin Artisans’ Club

As you leave the small church park, you come face to face with an entrance porch whose decoration stands out sharply from the rest of the buildings on the street. Since we’re here to answer any questions that might cross your mind, know that this is the entrance to the Berliner Handwerker Verein—the Berlin Artisans’ Club. Look closely, you’ll notice a sculpted handshake above the entrance. It’s the ultimate symbol of solidarity and unity, representing the spirit of cooperation and mutual support among its members. This historic organization played an important role in Germany’s political history. It was founded in 1844 by artisans and workers who wished to address the social challenges of their time as well as improve their living conditions. The club also hosted the German Workers' Party and was involved in the revolutionary movement of 1848, which supported emerging ideas and participated actively in debates on democracy and national unification. Between 1950 and 1990, the building served as a workshop for the Maxim Gorki Theater. Since 1996, the former artisans’ club has housed the independent theater Sophiensaele. Now, continue straight along the street until you see the entrance to the Hackesche Höfe, on your right at number 69.