St. Godehard

St. Godehard, a beacon of Romanesque architecture, stands proudly at the southern edge of Hildesheim's old town. Known locally as Basilika St. Godehard, this majestic basilica is a testament to the architectural prowess of the 12th century. Built between 1133 and 1172, it remains untouched by later modifications and miraculously survived the ravages of World War II, making it one of Germany's most significant Romanesque edifices.

The Historical Journey of St. Godehard

The basilica's story begins with St. Godehard himself, a revered Benedictine bishop canonized in 1133. That same year, Bishop Bernard initiated the construction of the church and monastery in Godehard's honor. By 1172, the church was consecrated by Bishop Adelog. St. Godehard's relics attracted pilgrims from far and wide, cementing its place as a spiritual hub during the High Middle Ages.

Remarkably, while the Reformation swept through the region, transforming many parish churches into Lutheran establishments, the Godehard Monastery remained unscathed. It continued its religious mission until the secularization of 1803 threatened its existence. Thanks to the determined efforts of Hermann Gottfried Held, the basilica was spared demolition and later became a Catholic parish church, maintained by the General Hanoverian Monastery Fund from 1818 onwards.

Exploring St. Godehard

Visitors to St. Godehard are greeted by its classic Romanesque structure, a three-aisled basilica with a transept and ambulatory adorned with three radial chapels. The grandeur of its octagonal crossing tower and the twin towers of the westwork are striking features that echo its medieval origins. The walls are embellished with blind arcade friezes and lesenes, adding to its architectural charm.

The northwest portal is particularly captivating, with its tympanum depicting Christ flanked by the holy bishops Godehard and Epiphanius, welcoming all who enter. Inside, the flat-roofed nave is supported by six pillars and twelve columns, showcasing the distinctive Lower Saxon alternating support system. The intricate capitals, rich in figures and ornaments, are masterpieces of their kind.

Artistic and Spiritual Treasures

Within the basilica, light streams through the round-arched windows, illuminating the high choir and its exquisite decorations. A notable feature is the wheel chandelier hanging over the main altar, donated by Queen Marie of Hanover in 1864. The choir is richly decorated with paintings by Michael Welter from 1861-63, and the high altar from the same period stands as a testament to the church's artistic heritage.

The late Gothic choir stalls, the crucifixion group on the south transept wall, and the statue of St. Godehard near the northeast entrance are among the many treasures that adorn the basilica. In the south transept, the late Baroque Benedict Altar, with a Gothic central panel, adds to the spiritual ambiance.

The Majestic Organ and Bells

The basilica's organ, originally built in 1912 by the Furtwängler & Hammer company, underwent several restorations, the latest in 2021/22, restoring its original romantic sound. It now boasts 47 stops and two transmissions across three manual works and pedal, offering a rich auditory experience for visitors.

The bell ensemble includes a bronze church bell from 1926 and four iron-cast bells, with the larger ones housed in the western towers and the others in the crossing tower. A historical bronze bell, though unringable due to casting flaws, stands proudly in the nave.

St. Godehard's Role Through the Ages

During the destruction of Hildesheim's old town in March 1945, St. Godehard remarkably remained largely undamaged. It served as the bishop's church until the cathedral's reconsecration in 1960. In 1963, Pope Paul VI granted it the title of Basilica minor, recognizing its significance in the Catholic tradition.

From 2003 to 2013, Benedictine monks from the Dormition Abbey in Jerusalem resided at St. Godehard, continuing its monastic legacy. During the cathedral's renovation from 2010 to 2014, the basilica once again became the site of pontifical liturgies, with the bishop's cathedra temporarily housed here.

Today, St. Godehard is part of the parish of the same name, formed in 2014, which includes several other churches in the area. The former monastery now hosts the Northern German College of Legal Studies, where legal officers are trained.

St. Godehard is not just a church; it is a living monument to history, faith, and artistry. Its walls echo with the prayers of centuries, inviting visitors to explore its sacred spaces and connect with its storied past. A visit to this basilica is a journey through time, offering insights into the enduring spirit of Hildesheim and its people.