Saint Nicholas church Feldkirch

Saint Nicholas Church Feldkirch, known locally as Dom St. Nikolaus, stands proudly in the heart of Feldkirch's old town, in the Austrian state of Vorarlberg. This Roman Catholic cathedral, dedicated to Saint Nicholas, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and stunning architecture, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring this picturesque region.

The Historical Tapestry of Saint Nicholas Church

The origins of Saint Nicholas Church are steeped in mystery and antiquity. It is believed to have been a filial church of either St. Peter in Rankweil or St. Petronilla in Altenstadt. The church's journey began in earnest in 1218 when it was elevated to the status of a parish church. By 1287, it was officially dedicated to Saint Nicholas, a testament to its growing significance in the region.

The church's history is marked by resilience and rebirth. It endured significant damage during the city fires of 1348, 1396, and 1460. However, each time it rose from the ashes, stronger and more magnificent. In 1478, under the guidance of architect Hans Sturn, the church was rebuilt in the late Gothic style, complete with a new nave and a gabled roof. The northern tower, completed in 1479, still stands as a beacon of the church's storied past.

In the early 16th century, the chancel area was constructed under a lower gabled roof, adding to the church's architectural diversity. The church also boasts sacristies and chapels, including the Marian Chapel and the Baptistery, both nestled under pent roofs.

The Architectural Marvel

Saint Nicholas Church is an architectural gem, showcasing a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Its two-aisle design, a result of the limited space behind the city walls and along the former city moat, gives it a unique and intimate charm. The church's exterior, with its towering spire and clock, is a striking feature that dominates the Feldkirch skyline.

Inside, the church is a visual feast. The wrought-iron pulpit, fashioned in 1520 from an earlier sacrament house, is a masterpiece of craftsmanship. The right side altar, depicting Anna Selbdritt, was created in 1521 by the Feldkirch painter Wolf Huber, who also painted the Lamentation of Christ in the chancel.

The high altar, crafted by Josef Götz in 1875, and the left side altar, designed by Domvikar Georg Dengler and executed by Josef Bertsch in 1878, are splendid examples of 19th-century ecclesiastical art. The Stations of the Cross reliefs, created by Emil Gehrer in 1963 and 1964, add a contemporary touch to the church's rich artistic heritage.

Three marble slabs in front of the Marian altar in the side nave mark the episcopal crypt, where the bishops Bruno Wechner and Elmar Fischer are interred. The neo-Gothic altar in the Marian Chapel, created by Fidelis Rudhart in 1905, features a Madonna figure from around 1430. The statues of Peter and Paul, carved by Hans Thomann around 1515, once adorned the former Apostles' Altar.

The church's stained glass windows, designed by Martin Häusle in the early 1960s, infuse the interior with a kaleidoscope of colors, adding to the serene and contemplative atmosphere.

The Bells and Organs

The tower of Saint Nicholas Church houses a remarkable set of nine bronze bells, some of which date back to the 14th and 16th centuries. These historic bells were spared from being melted down during the two World Wars due to their significant historical value. Instead, Feldkirch provided an equivalent amount of copper, preserving these sonic treasures for future generations.

The church is also home to several notable organs. The main organ, built in 1976 by the organ-building firm Metzler & Sons from Dietikon, Switzerland, features 35 registers across three manuals and a pedal. The mechanical tracker action provides a tactile and responsive playing experience. In addition to the main organ, the church houses a choir organ built by the Mayer brothers in 1878 and the Feldkirch Organ Positiv from 1699, which is the oldest organ in Vorarlberg.

A Living Monument

Saint Nicholas Church Feldkirch is not just a historical monument; it is a living, breathing part of the community. Its walls echo with centuries of prayers, celebrations, and solemn moments. The church continues to serve as a place of worship, reflection, and cultural heritage, welcoming visitors from around the world.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to Saint Nicholas Church Feldkirch offers a journey through time, revealing the rich tapestry of Feldkirch's past and its enduring spirit. As you stand beneath its towering spire and gaze upon its intricate details, you can't help but feel a profound connection to the generations who have walked these hallowed halls.