St.Blaise church Hann.Münden

St. Blaise Church Hann. Münden, known locally as St. Blasius, stands as a testament to the rich historical and architectural heritage of Hann. Münden in Lower Saxony, Germany. This Gothic hall church, surrounded by the charming, historic houses of the old town, invites visitors to step back in time and explore its fascinating past and exquisite craftsmanship.

The History of St. Blaise Church Hann. Münden

The origins of St. Blaise Church Hann. Münden can be traced back to around the year 1000 when a chapel was first established on a nearly square foundation. This early structure was expanded westward around 1150 with a Romanesque addition, followed by further enlargement between 1180 and 1190 into a Romanesque basilica with rounded apses in the side aisles. Unfortunately, this early church was later destroyed by fire.

Construction of the current Gothic structure began on the foundations of the Romanesque church in three distinct phases. From 1260 to 1280, the first bay and the choir were built, with a temporary wall serving as the western boundary. An inscription near the south portal indicates that the second phase, including the addition of the sacristy and the lower part of the tower, was completed between 1487 and 1519. The tower, which stands at 58 meters with an octagonal design and a Baroque dome, was finished in the third phase from 1535 to 1584. The tower, integrated into the church building, offers a commanding presence over the city.

The church has been a Protestant place of worship since 1540 and can accommodate approximately 900 people. Over the centuries, it has undergone numerous renovations and restorations. Notably, in the late 19th century, significant repairs were made, including the replacement of medieval windows and the installation of a new floor. The church's interior was reconfigured in the 1970s, with the altar moved to the center and the pews replaced with movable seating.

Architectural Highlights

St. Blaise Church Hann. Münden boasts several architectural and artistic treasures. The Baroque altar, standing 12 meters high, was carved between 1695 and 1700 by Johann Andreas Gröber from Heiligenstadt. This magnificent piece is a focal point of the church's interior.

The Passion Altar, originally from the deconsecrated St. Aegidien Church, features paintings attributed to an unknown master of the Danube School, dating to around 1530. The festive side of the altar depicts the Crucifixion of Christ, while the weekday side, when closed, shows scenes from the Annunciation and the Adoration of the Magi, among others.

One of the few surviving frescoes from the 16th century, depicting St. Anne with the Virgin Mary and the Christ Child, was rediscovered and restored in 1973. This fresco, located on the arch between the two pillars of the tower, is a vivid reminder of the church's rich artistic heritage.

Notable Features and Memorials

St. Blaise Church Hann. Münden is home to several notable memorials and features. A large epitaph for Mayor Bodo Meier (1592) and his wife Elisabeth Tilemann hangs on the south wall of the southern aisle. The epitaph includes a painting of the Crucifixion and numerous well-preserved inscriptions.

The church's impressive organ, built in 1977 by Johannes Klais from Bonn, features 40 registers on three manuals and a pedal, with a total of 2,806 pipes. This instrument, housed in a historic case from 1645, is a marvel of both historical and modern craftsmanship.

A memorial plaque for the Reformer Antonius Corvinus, installed in 1901 to commemorate his 400th birthday, is located on a buttress of the choir. Corvinus, appointed Superintendent by Duchess Elisabeth I in 1542, played a significant role in the Reformation in southern Hanover and preached in St. Blaise Church.

Visiting St. Blaise Church Hann. Münden

Visitors to St. Blaise Church Hann. Münden can marvel at its architectural beauty and delve into its storied past. The church's central location in the old town makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Hann. Münden's other historic sites and charming streets.

Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, St. Blaise Church Hann. Münden offers a captivating glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. Its soaring Gothic arches, intricate artworks, and serene atmosphere provide a memorable experience for all who enter its hallowed walls.