St. George's Collegiate Church

St. George's Collegiate Church, known locally as Stiftskirche, stands as a magnificent testament to the rich history and architectural splendor of Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. This stunning late Gothic hall church, constructed between 1470 and 1490, is not only a spiritual haven but also a historical landmark that has witnessed the evolution of the town and its people over centuries.

The Origins of St. George's Collegiate Church

The site of St. George's Collegiate Church has been a sacred ground for centuries. Before the current structure was built, there were already two predecessor churches. Archaeological excavations during an interior renovation in 1962-64 revealed remnants of these earlier Romanesque buildings. The oldest, dating back to the 11th century, was a three-nave basilica with a semicircular choir and two side apses. The discovery of a sarcophagus containing the remains of a supposed three-legged individual added a touch of local legend to the history of the church.

The Construction of the Current Church

The construction of the present-day St. George's Collegiate Church began in earnest in 1470 under the patronage of Count Eberhard im Bart. The relocation of the collegiate chapter from Sindelfingen and the founding of the University of Tübingen necessitated a grander church to serve the growing community. The design of the late Gothic hall church is attributed to master builders Peter von Koblenz and Hans Augsteindreyer, although their exact contributions remain unconfirmed.

The oldest part of the current church is the bell tower, whose construction began in 1411. By 1468, the tower had reached the bell storey, but further work was halted due to the construction of the choir. The choir, completed in 1478, is believed to be the work of Peter von Koblenz. The nave, begun in 1478 and completed around 1490, was overseen by Hans Augsteindreyer. Financial constraints meant that the main and side aisles were initially covered with temporary wooden ceilings. The tower was finally completed in 1590 with the addition of a wooden spire by Georg Beer.

Architectural Marvels

St. George's Collegiate Church is a three-nave, late Gothic hall church with a distinctive five-sided choir and a prominent west tower. The church's orientation is roughly east-west, with the main nave higher than the side aisles but of equal width. The steep gabled roof, which also covers the side aisles, was constructed using timber from the Black Forest, floated down the Neckar River.

The tower is a four-storey structure with a square base and an octagonal spire. The bell storey features narrow, pointed arch sound openings and clock faces on each side. A gallery at a height of 45 meters offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, making the climb up the winding staircases well worth the effort.

The Interior of the Church

The interior of St. George's Collegiate Church is equally impressive. The choir, the first part of the current church to be built, initially served as a collegiate church for the canons. The high altar, destroyed during the iconoclasm of 1536, was originally located here. The former choir stalls are now situated in the nave.

One of the church's most treasured artworks is the altarpiece by Hans Schäufelin, a student of Albrecht Dürer. The altarpiece, dating from 1520, depicts the crucifixion of Christ, with scenes of the carrying of the cross and the lamentation on the inner wings. The outer wings show Christ on the Mount of Olives. The altarpiece was meticulously restored in 1960.

The Collegiate Church's Role Through the Ages

Over the centuries, St. George's Collegiate Church has undergone several transformations and renovations. In 1534, following the Reformation, the collegiate chapter was dissolved, and the church was once again designated as the parish church of Tübingen. From 1550, the choir became the new burial place for the ducal family of Württemberg, adding another layer of historical significance to the church.

The church's interior was baroquized in 1674 and 1777 but was later redesigned in a neo-Gothic style during a major renovation by court architect Christian Friedrich von Leins in 1876-77. The most significant change during this renovation was the replacement of the wooden ceilings with a ribbed vault made of cement, clay, and tuff stone. Further renovations in the 20th century ensured the preservation of this architectural gem.

The Final Resting Place of Nobility

The choir of St. George's Collegiate Church houses the tombs of several notable figures, including Count Eberhard im Bart, Duke Ulrich, and Duchess Sabina of Bavaria. The elaborate epitaphs and tombs provide a fascinating glimpse into the church's role as a burial place for the nobility.

In conclusion, St. George's Collegiate Church is not just a place of worship but a monument to the rich history and cultural heritage of Tübingen. Its architectural beauty, historical significance, and the legends that surround it make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this charming German town. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, St. George's Collegiate Church promises to leave you in awe of its timeless splendor.