St. Johannis

St. Johannis, located in the charming town of Wolfenbüttel, Germany, is a splendid example of Protestant church architecture that draws visitors with its unique character and rich history. Known locally as St.-Johannis-Kirche, this church is dedicated to John the Baptist and is part of the Evangelical-Lutheran Church in Braunschweig.

The History of St. Johannis

The story of St. Johannis begins in the mid-17th century, a time when the town of Wolfenbüttel was a significant cultural and political center. Construction of the church commenced in 1661 and concluded two years later, with its consecration taking place on December 13, 1663, in the presence of Augustus the Younger, Duke of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel. The church was designed as a three-nave half-timbered structure resting on a solid stone foundation, topped with a gable roof.

One of the most striking features of St. Johannis is its robust western facade, accentuated by corner quoining. Originally, the lower level of the church served as a mortuary, complete with a cross-vaulted ceiling and a round-arched entrance. However, the initial church tower proved unstable and was dismantled around 1690. A new, freestanding bell tower was constructed in 1693 based on designs by the master builder Johann Balthasar Lauterbach.

Exploring St. Johannis

Visitors to St. Johannis will find a treasure trove of historical artifacts and architectural beauty. The church is often described as a precious gem of Protestant church architecture by architectural historians like August Fink. The interior is adorned with exquisite medallions depicting Augustus the Younger and his wife Sophie Elisabeth, which hang gracefully in the choir.

The altar, pulpit (complete with a pulpit clock), baptismal font, and organ facade originate from the chapel of the once-majestic Schloss Hessen, a princely residence that has since fallen into ruin. The walls of St. Johannis also bear the gravestones of notable figures such as the master builder Hermann Korb, who died in 1735, and the composer Johann Rosenmüller, who passed away in 1684.

The Organ and Bells

The organ at St. Johannis is a masterpiece in itself. The case, crafted by David Beck in 1593, was a gift from Duke August, as were the altar, pulpit, and baptismal font. The organ was updated in 1971 by the Paul Ott organ-building company in Göttingen. This instrument features 22 stops across two manuals and a pedal, offering a rich musical experience for visitors and congregants alike.

St. Johannis also boasts a fascinating history with its bells. Shortly after the church's completion, a wooden bell tower was installed, housing three bells between 1663 and 1676. The first bell was recast from one originally hanging in the monastery at Clus near Bad Gandersheim. Weighing approximately 700 kg, it was eventually melted down for war efforts during World War I, as was the third bell acquired in 1676. The middle bell from 1672, however, remains intact. It was crafted by the foundry Heiso Meyer, weighs 650 kg, and bears the inscription: So ihr nun Lust habt zu einem seligen Leben, so ist Gott auch bereit, das selbe euch zu geben.

In 1961, two new bells were commissioned to replace those lost during the war. These were cast by the Rincker foundry in Sinn, Dillkreis. The larger bell weighs 1,100 kg and is inscribed with Christ hat dem Tode die Macht genommen. Den Toten der Kriege, while the smaller bell weighs 550 kg and features the inscription Land, Land höre des Herrn Wort!

A Visit to St. Johannis

For those exploring Wolfenbüttel, St. Johannis offers a serene and historically rich experience. The church stands not only as a place of worship but also as a monument to the architectural and cultural heritage of the region. Its beautiful half-timbered design, historical artifacts, and peaceful surroundings make it a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and architecture of Lower Saxony.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, St. Johannis welcomes you to explore its storied past and appreciate its enduring beauty. As you wander through its hallowed halls, you'll find yourself transported back in time, reflecting on the lives and legacies of those who have passed through its doors over the centuries.