Liebfrauenkirche

Ravensburg, a picturesque town in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, is home to the enchanting Liebfrauenkirche, also known as the Church of Our Lady. This Roman Catholic church, nestled at the northern entrance to the old town, is a testament to centuries of architectural evolution and religious significance. Its rich history and stunning design make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this charming region.

The History of Liebfrauenkirche

The Liebfrauenkirche was constructed between 1279 and 1360, making it the second oldest parish church in Ravensburg. During the Middle Ages, it was incorporated into the Weingarten Abbey, reflecting its importance within the ecclesiastical hierarchy of the time. In 1470, an additional side aisle was added, further enhancing its architectural complexity.

One of the most striking features of the church is its medieval stained glass windows, which were created in 1415. These windows, located in the choir, are masterpieces of medieval glass painting. The Apostle Window in the northeast, with its intricate mosaic design, depicts the twelve apostles with their symbols, surrounded by inscriptions of the twelve articles of the Apostles' Creed in Gothic script. The central window in the east and the southeast window form a cycle illustrating biblical and legendary scenes from the life of Mary and the childhood of Jesus.

Exploring the Interior

Stepping inside the Liebfrauenkirche, visitors are greeted by a wealth of historical and artistic treasures. One of the highlights is the copy of a Schutzmantelmadonna in the southern side aisle. The original, dating back to 1480, is now housed in the sculpture collection in Berlin. This late Gothic artwork from Ulm continues to be venerated for its exquisite craftsmanship and spiritual significance.

In the high choir, you will find a remarkable late Gothic carved altar from 1519, originally from Switzerland. This altar was acquired in the late 1950s after the removal of the church's complete neo-Gothic furnishings and uniform interior decoration. The sacraments house, made of Rorschach sandstone, is another notable piece. Its late Gothic and early Renaissance design is reminiscent of the Sebaldus tomb by Peter Vischer in Nuremberg's St. Sebaldus Church.

Adjacent to the sacraments house, behind glass, is a small travel altar made of Limoges enamel, also from the late Gothic period. The apse features three late Gothic stained glass windows, created by the same master who worked on the Eriskirch and the Besserer Chapel in Ulm Minster.

The Choir and Nave

The large Gothic choir stalls, partially supplemented in the 19th century, once hosted the clergy supported by the citizenry for daily choir prayers. The long high choir, unusual for a parish church, was separated from the nave by a rood screen, the foundations of which were excavated in 2010. Above the choir stalls, six large wall paintings by Gebhard Fugel depict the legend of St. Andrew, the church's patron saint, and scenes from the life of Jesus. Although these paintings are now quite dark and in poor condition, they still convey a sense of the church's historical and artistic heritage.

In the nave, visitors can admire the excellently renovated Stations of the Cross, also painted by Gebhard Fugel. A monumental late Gothic crucifix, which once adorned the gable exterior of the chapel in the old cemetery, now hangs on the east wall of the northern side aisle. Since 2011, it has been elegantly displayed in the chancel arch.

The nave also features a series of windows depicting the seven sacraments, created by Wilhelm Geyer from Ulm in the 1960s. Among these, the penultimate window on the south side includes a cabinet window showing St. Adalbert, a gift from the Polish partner parish of St. Adalbert in Poznań from the 1990s.

The Organs

The Liebfrauenkirche has a long tradition of organ music, with records of organists dating back to the mid-15th century. Over the years, several instruments have graced the church, including organs built by Joseph Gabler in 1749 and Carl Gottlob Weigle in 1868. The current main organ, constructed in 1959 by the Reiser company from Biberach, incorporates much of the existing pipework and wind chests from previous instruments. This organ, with its full, dark, and unobtrusive yet room-filling sound, has 54 registers on four manuals and a pedal, and combines elements of Romantic and Organ Movement styles.

In addition to the main organ, the church also houses a choir organ, built in 1989 by Rudolf Kubak from Augsburg. This organ, with its two manuals and 15 registers, was designed to be movable and now stands fixed in front of the eastern end wall of the northern side aisle. Its bright, lively, and radiant sound is perfect for early music, complementing the larger main organ.

A Visit to Remember

The Liebfrauenkirche in Ravensburg is not just a place of worship but a repository of history, art, and culture. Its walls echo with centuries of devotion, artistry, and community spirit. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to this magnificent church will leave you with a deep appreciation for its rich heritage and enduring beauty.

From its medieval stained glass windows to its impressive Gothic architecture, the Liebfrauenkirche offers a glimpse into the past while continuing to serve as a vibrant part of the Ravensburg community. As you explore its hallowed halls, take a moment to reflect on the countless generations who have walked these paths before you, finding solace, inspiration, and a sense of connection in this sacred space.