Heilig-Geist-Spital

Heilig-Geist-Spital is a medieval hospital building with chapel in central Berlin, constructed on a fieldstone foundation. The structure displays characteristic brick architecture with a star vault ceiling and shapes the character of Spandauer Straße.

The hospital was first mentioned in 1272 in a letter from the bakers guild and operated a care facility until 1825 that served the sick, elderly, and travelers. Its long history shows the importance of this institution for the growing settlement on the Spree.

The chapel now serves Humboldt University as a venue for official celebrations and academic gatherings. It connects its original religious purpose with its modern role as a space for university ceremonies.

The building is generally not accessible for public visits as it is used by the university. If you have special interest, you can inquire whether tours or events are planned to which visitors are admitted.

In the 1900s demolition was planned but the building was preserved and later served as a school cafeteria during the East German period. These unexpected uses show how the structure adapted to the needs of different eras.