20th Anniversary of the Field of Rye

Duration: 25 May to 31 October 2025

A blooming field of rye in the former border strip symbolizes the cycle of life, peace, hope and the power of nature. The Berlin Wall existed here for more than 28 years, separating families and friends and dividing a city and country. The Church of Reconciliation stood here, with bricked-up doors and windows, until it was demolished by the GDR border regime in 1985. Today, new life is being created at this site. 

This art project on the grounds of the Berlin Wall Memorial was initiated by Michael Spengler / Atelier denkwerk and the Protestant Reconciliation Congregation. As an independent biotope, it has become a living part of the memorial landscape on the former GDR border strip. The field is tilled, the rye is sown, it grows and is harvested again. 

Over the years, various actors and institutions have contributed to this art project, helping it to become a multifaceted social community. To mark the 20th anniversary of the rye field, this exhibition pays tribute to the many dedicated people involved in the project. They share in the joy of working at the intersection of art, ecology, history, spirituality, and politics in the heart of the capital.

The exhibition is located in the walkway of the Chapel of Reconciliation at Bernauer Straße 4, 10115 Berlin.

Please note the opening hours of the Chapel of Reconciliation. The chapel and the exhibition are closed on Mondays.