St. Lambertus

St. Lambertus Church, nestled in the heart of Düsseldorf's historic Old Town, is a beacon of architectural splendor and historical significance. This Roman Catholic church, dedicated to St. Lambertus, stands as one of the oldest and most iconic landmarks in the city, with its roots tracing back to the early medieval period.

The History of St. Lambertus

The origins of St. Lambertus can be traced back to a predecessor structure, likely under the patronage of the canonesses' convent of Gerresheim and the St. Ursula's convent in Cologne, as documented by a papal bull from Pope Adrian IV in 1159. However, the history of the site predates this document, indicating its longstanding spiritual significance. By 1209, a Romanesque court chapel at the site had been elevated to the status of a parish church, replacing the older St. Martin's in Bilk.

The church gained prominence following the Battle of Worringen in 1288 and the subsequent elevation of Düsseldorf to city status by Adolf V of Berg. During this period, a collegiate foundation was established at St. Lambertus, and the church was dedicated to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The foundation was generously supported by the ruling family of Berg, who aimed to develop Düsseldorf into a principal city and a pilgrimage site. By 1392, the foundation had grown to support forty clergy members serving at twelve altars within the church.

Architectural Marvels

Construction of the current Gothic hall church began around 1370, incorporating the foundations of the earlier Romanesque structure. The three-aisled church, consecrated in 1394, features a variety of dedications, including those to St. Mary, St. Thomas, St. Lambertus, St. Apollinaris, St. Severin, and St. Anno. The church's interior was enriched with significant relics, such as the bones of St. Apollinaris, which were moved from Remagen to Düsseldorf.

St. Lambertus also served as the ducal burial site for the Berg family, housing the graves of numerous notable figures, including Duke William the Rich and other members of the ducal family. The church's interior underwent significant renovations in the 17th century, following damage from a storm in 1606 and an explosion in 1634. The new furnishings, including the high altar designed by Michael Cagnon, four side altars, the pulpit, and confessionals, were added between 1691 and 1698.

The Twisted Tower

One of the most distinctive features of St. Lambertus is its twisted spire, a result of reconstruction efforts following a fire in 1815. The spire, rebuilt by Adolph von Vagedes, twisted due to the use of green, unseasoned timber. Local legend attributes the twist to the devil, who, in a fit of rage, attempted to tear the church from its foundations. During post-World War II restorations, the spire was deliberately rebuilt with its characteristic twist, much to the delight of the local community, earning it the nickname the leaning tower of Düsseldorf.

Art and Relics

St. Lambertus is home to a wealth of artistic and religious treasures. The church's main altar houses a shrine containing the relics of St. Apollinaris, Düsseldorf's patron saint since 1394. Additionally, the church possesses a shrine with the head relic of St. Willeicus, a companion and successor of St. Suitbert, and a silver-gilt reliquary of St. Apollinaris, a gift from Duke Philip William in 1665. The church's treasure trove also includes a Romanesque head reliquary, believed to contain the remains of either St. Candidus or St. Vitalis.

The Organs and Bells

Music lovers will appreciate the two magnificent organs within St. Lambertus, both crafted by the Austrian organ builder Rieger. The grand tower organ, completed in 1999, features 54 stops across three manuals and a pedal, playable from two consoles. The choir organ, housed in a baroque case, was completed in 2004 and has 22 stops across two manuals and a pedal.

The church's bell tower houses a seven-bell bronze peal, cast in 1987 by the Petit & Gebr. Edelbrock bell foundry. The bell motif Victimae paschali laudes resonates with the melody Christ is risen, while the three smaller bells form a major triad, creating a harmonious soundscape. Two historic bells, dating back to 1462 and cast by Art de Wilde van Venlo, and another from Sieglar, are still in use today.

St. Lambertus Cemetery

Hidden beneath the St. Lambertus Church square lies Düsseldorf's first cemetery, where the deceased were interred in what is now the Stiftsplatz. The cemetery's existence is documented as early as 1303, though it likely predates this record, serving the city's early inhabitants.

In conclusion, St. Lambertus Church is not just a place of worship but a testament to Düsseldorf's rich history and cultural heritage. Its architectural beauty, storied past, and artistic treasures make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the vibrant city of Düsseldorf.