St. Johannes Baptist

In the heart of Attendorn, a picturesque town in the Sauerland region of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, stands the majestic St. Johannes Baptist Church. Known locally as the Sauerländer Dom, this impressive edifice is a testament to centuries of religious devotion, architectural evolution, and communal resilience. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, St. Johannes Baptist offers a captivating glimpse into the past and present of this charming German town.

The Historical Tapestry of St. Johannes Baptist

The origins of St. Johannes Baptist date back to the 14th century when the church was first established as a collegiate foundation. This foundation was initiated by Johann von der Becke, an Attendorner merchant, and received official recognition from Archbishop Friedrich III of Cologne in 1396. The primary function of the foundation was to ensure the regular recital of communal prayers in the parish church. This practice continued until 1825 when it was discontinued by the General Vicar of Paderborn, Richard Dammers, to allow clergy to focus on their essential duties.

The church's history is marked by a series of architectural transformations. Excavations in 1974 revealed three predecessor buildings: a 9th-century hall church with a rectangular choir, an 11th/12th-century basilica with a rectangular choir and west tower, and a 13th-century basilica with a three-apse choir and a new west tower. The current structure, predominantly built in the second half of the 14th century, incorporates elements from these earlier constructions, creating a rich tapestry of architectural styles and historical layers.

Architectural Marvels and War-Time Resilience

St. Johannes Baptist is an architectural gem, showcasing a blend of Romanesque and Gothic elements. The church's tower, dating from the 13th century, features round arches, pilasters, and a decorative frieze. The upper portion of the tower, added during the Gothic period, is crowned with a distinctive stepped helmet, restored in 1948 after World War II damage.

During World War II, the church suffered significant damage. A bomb attack on March 28, 1945, destroyed the windows on the market side and severely damaged the southwest corner of the tower, which caught fire. Despite the flames spreading to the roof, the vaults and masonry withstood the destruction. The post-war restoration, completed by 1962, included the installation of a new organ and the reconstruction of the tower's upper section.

Exploring the Interior: A Feast for the Eyes

The interior of St. Johannes Baptist is a treasure trove of religious art and historical artifacts. The baroque furnishings, primarily crafted in the workshop of Johann Sasse, are particularly noteworthy. Although some pieces were lost in a city fire in 1783, many exquisite items remain, offering a glimpse into the church's opulent past.

The Splendid Pulpit and Altars

The pulpit, considered one of the most magnificent works from the Sasse workshop, is adorned with vibrant rococo decorations and gold accents. The pulpit basket features figures of the four Evangelists and the four Latin Church Fathers, each identifiable by their attributes. The canopy, although missing its original volute structure, remains an impressive sight.

The southern side altar, likely created in 1670 by Johannes Sasse, is dedicated to St. Sebastian. The altar's main panel depicts the martyrdom of St. Sebastian, inspired by a copper engraving by Jan Muller. The upper section houses statues of St. Anne and her daughter Mary, with additional figures of St. Anthony of Padua and St. Anthony the Hermit gracing the cornice.

The northern side altar, constructed around 1700, features white, twisted columns with black marble effects. This altar incorporates elements from a former altar dedicated to St. James and St. Andrew, as well as a deteriorated Agatha altar. The upper painting depicts God the Father with a scepter and globe, while the lower painting portrays the Holy Family in a desert landscape, together symbolizing the Trinity.

Other Artistic Treasures

The church's collection includes a life-sized statue of St. Christopher, standing nearly 3.5 meters tall, a masterpiece from the Sasse workshop. Donated in 1680 by Christophorus Zeppenfeld and his wife, this statue is reminiscent of the grand depiction of the saint in Paderborn by Heinrich Gröninger.

Among the church's other notable artifacts are six life-sized apostle figures in the choir, a trachyte baptismal font from the 11th century, a 14th-century wooden Pietà, and a 15th-century crucifix. Additionally, figures of the Virgin Mary with the Child Jesus and St. Joseph, originally from the deconsecrated Church of St. Joseph, have found a new home in St. Johannes Baptist.

The Majestic Organ and Bells

The church's organ, built in 1957 by the Klais organ-building company from Bonn, boasts 43 registers on three manuals and a pedal. With approximately 3,500 pipes, the organ underwent extensive restoration in 2013/14, ensuring its continued musical splendor.

St. Johannes Baptist also features an impressive nine-bell chime. The main chime consists of eight bells in the main tower, while a ninth, cast in June 2022 and weighing around 50 kg, resides in the roof turret above the altar area. This solo bell, known as the Kleppglocke, is rung before services, adding to the church's rich auditory experience.

In conclusion, St. Johannes Baptist in Attendorn is more than just a church; it is a living monument to history, art, and community. Its walls echo with centuries of prayers, its art tells stories of faith and devotion, and its resilient structure stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Attendorn. A visit to this remarkable church is a journey through time, offering a profound connection to the past and an appreciation for the beauty of sacred architecture.