Kirche

The Kirche, known locally as the Kreuzkapelle, is a hidden gem nestled in the charming town of Kitzingen in Bavaria, Germany. This small yet remarkably intricate baroque Catholic church, constructed between 1741 and 1745, is a testament to the architectural genius of Balthasar Neumann, one of the era's most influential architects. The Kreuzkapelle, or Chapel of the Holy Cross, stands as a symbol of both spiritual devotion and architectural innovation, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the region.

The Vision Behind the Kirche

The Kreuzkapelle was commissioned by Friedrich Carl von Schönborn, the Prince-Bishop of Würzburg. His vision was to create a significant Catholic landmark that could rival the nearby Protestant church of St. Michael. This ambitious project was intended to demonstrate both the liberal spirit and the supremacy of the Catholic Church. The result is one of Neumann's most elaborate village churches, a structure that does not shy away from comparison with his other sacred buildings.

Architectural Marvel

The design of the Kreuzkapelle is a fascinating blend of traditional and innovative elements. The church's layout follows the widely used façade tower type prevalent in Franconia, evolving from the shape of a Latin cross. Constructed from Franconian sandstone and topped with a slate roof, the church's façade is elegantly curved and centered along its main axis, from which a relatively low tower with an onion dome and four bells rises. This design choice was influenced by the Prince-Bishop's desire for a fire-resistant structure.

Neumann originally envisioned an optimal rotunda in the crossing area, which he expanded by rounding the corners before the church's completion in 1745. The resulting space is a four-arcade rotunda with pairs of columns, creating a dynamic and fluid interior. The columns are detached from the walls, allowing light to play off their surfaces and creating a sense of movement within the space. The absence of cylindrical spandrel walls means that the arch arcades cut into the vault shell, forming a unified vaulted zone. This design enhances the transparency and spaciousness of the interior, with the columns and sweeping arches forming the inner shell of the rotunda, while the rounded corner walls create the outer shell.

However, Neumann's ambitious plans for the vaulting proved too challenging for the local construction team. As a result, the master builder replaced the arch arcades and intermediate vaults with four pointed caps that cut deeply into the vault shell. This modification transformed the original elegant arch design into a more rigid and angular appearance.

Austere Yet Elegant Interior

The interior of the Kreuzkapelle is striking in its simplicity. The walls are painted white, devoid of any paintings or stucco work, in accordance with the wishes of the patron. The altars and pulpit are also modestly designed, focusing attention on the architectural elements of the space.

The main altar, adorned with angelic figures, is believed to have been crafted by a master from the circle of Johann Peter Wagner. It was donated by Johann Caspar Barthel, the Dean of Stift Haug in Würzburg and the director of the seminary. A cross with Mary Magdalene stands at the rear wall, while figures of Mary and John are positioned above the entrances. The windows in the side arms feature statues of Peter and Paul, originally from the high altar of the parish church of St. John. The pulpit, dating from 1799, was created by Heinrich Nickel, a student of Johann Peter Wagner.

A Significant Dedication

The Kreuzkapelle was consecrated on October 17, 1745, exactly 1000 years after the dedication of the Benedictine monastery in Kitzingen in 745. The consecration ceremonies were grand and elaborate, especially for the small village of Etwashausen. Today, the annual Etwashäuser Kirchweih (Ebshäuser Kerm) is held on the second or third Sunday in October to commemorate the church's dedication. This four-day festival is renowned beyond the borders of Kitzingen, attracting visitors with its festive parade featuring marching bands, vegetable-adorned floats, and local dignitaries. For the residents of Etwashausen, the Kirchweih also serves as a harvest festival, typically including an ecumenical service in the Kreuzkapelle on Kirchweih Monday.

A Chapel with a Grand Presence

Despite its substantial size, the Kreuzkapelle is referred to as a chapel because it was originally conceived as a subsidiary church of the parish church of St. John on the opposite side of the Main River. In Franconia, subsidiary churches are often called chapels regardless of their size, as is the case with the Marienkapelle in Würzburg.

The Kreuzkapelle is a protected cultural asset under the Hague Conventions. During the summer months, a Mass is held every Sunday at 7:00 PM. However, in the colder months, the chapel cannot be adequately heated.

Interestingly, the floor plan of the Kreuzkapelle, shaped like a Latin cross, was featured on the reverse side of the 50 Deutsche Mark banknote in circulation between 1991 and 2002.

In conclusion, the Kreuzkapelle in Kitzingen is not just a place of worship; it is a masterpiece of baroque architecture that reflects the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Its elegant design, historical significance, and serene atmosphere make it a captivating destination for visitors seeking to explore the spiritual and architectural treasures of Bavaria.