In the heart of Neuwied, a charming town in the Rheinland-Pfalz region of Germany, stands the majestic St. Matthias Church, a beacon of architectural splendor and historical significance. This late Gothic marvel, designed by the renowned Cologne architect Heinrich Krings, has been a cherished landmark since its completion in 1901. As you approach this grand edifice, its towering presence and intricate details beckon you to explore its rich history and stunning architecture.
The tale of St. Matthias is intertwined with the development of Neuwied itself. Founded in 1653, the city was a melting pot of religious tolerance, thanks to the progressive city rights granted by Count Friedrich III in 1662. This inclusivity allowed Catholics, a minority at the time, to eventually establish their own place of worship.
The first Catholic church in Neuwied was a modest structure built in 1701, outside the then city limits. As the Catholic community grew, so did the need for a larger church. By the late 19th century, plans for a new church were set in motion. After a competitive architectural contest, Heinrich Krings' design was chosen, and the cornerstone of the new church was laid on November 5, 1898. The church was consecrated on April 24, 1904, marking a new chapter in the spiritual life of Neuwied's Catholic community.
St. Matthias is a stunning example of late Gothic architecture, characterized by its three-aisled hall design and basilica-style choir. The exterior, crafted from tuff and sandstone, is dominated by a 68-meter-high bell tower, which serves as a prominent landmark at the intersection of Heddesdorfer Straße. The contrasting hues of the reddish cornerstones and the light tuff stone create a visually striking facade.
The main entrance is a masterpiece in itself, featuring a three-axis portal with a balcony. Above the central archway, a sealed rose window and a statue of the Apostle Matthias, the church's patron, add to the decorative richness. The asymmetrical design and the myriad of intricate details make this church a feast for the eyes.
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Stepping inside, the grandeur continues with a spacious, three-aisled hall stretching 57 meters in length and 23 meters in width. The nave's vaulted ceiling rises to an impressive height of 19.5 meters, creating an airy and uplifting atmosphere. The interior's two-story wall structure is adorned with a restrained neo-Gothic decoration, revitalized in 1979 by the talented restorer Gisela Heinrich-Schreyögg.
At the heart of the church's interior lies the neo-Gothic high altar, a magnificent piece crafted in 1903. The altar's retable is supported by six dark columns with bright bases and leafy capitals, symbolizing the sacrifice of Christ through the figure of a pelican feeding its young with its own flesh. The wooden base features half-figures of the four Church Fathers: Ambrose, Jerome, Augustine, and Gregory.
The side chapels house simpler altars dedicated to Mary and Joseph, while the intricately carved neo-Gothic pulpit showcases the four Evangelists. A cherished relic from the old parish church, a wooden Madonna on a crescent moon dating from the early 18th century, adds a touch of historical continuity to the space.
St. Matthias has withstood the test of time, surviving significant damage during World War II air raids and artillery bombardments. The ensuing restorations in the 1950s and the late 1970s have preserved the church's historical integrity while enhancing its beauty, ensuring that it continues to serve as a spiritual haven and architectural gem for generations to come.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a traveler seeking to connect with the past, St. Matthias in Neuwied offers a captivating journey through time. Its walls echo stories of resilience, faith, and community, making it an essential stop on any tour of the Rheinland-Pfalz region.
In conclusion, St. Matthias is not just a church; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of Neuwied's Catholic community and a shining example of late Gothic architecture. Its beauty and history invite you to pause, reflect, and admire the intricate tapestry of human endeavor that has shaped this remarkable landmark.
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