St. Georg

St. Georg Church, nestled in the charming district of Alt-Kaster in Bedburg, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a splendid example of late Gothic architecture. This Roman Catholic parish church, now a protected historical monument, stands as a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of the region. With its imposing spire and intricate architectural details, St. Georg Church is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply looking to experience the serene beauty of a bygone era.

The Historical Significance of St. Georg Church

The earliest documented mention of St. Georg Church dates back to 1362, a period when the Bishop of Liège granted Duke Wilhelm and his wife a marital dispensation on the condition that they establish a chapel or altar as an act of penance. Subsequent archaeological excavations have revealed a three-nave predecessor building from the 15th century, indicating the site's long-standing religious significance.

The current church structure, a simple yet elegant brick hall, was constructed between 1783 and 1785. It features a flat, rounded choir and is oriented towards the northeast. Measuring 27.5 meters in length and 13.25 meters in width, the church is built on a continuous plinth, with walls punctuated by segmental arch windows framed in ashlar stone.

Architectural Marvels

The church's west tower, dating from the 16th century, is crowned with a steep, slate-covered pyramid. Beneath this pyramid, a cross made of glazed bricks is visible, adding a unique touch to the tower's design. The three-story tower is adorned with sound windows and pointed arch windows on the upper floors, lending it a distinctive Gothic character.

In 1979, the church's mirror ceiling was extensively renovated, featuring ornate stucco work. Between 1980 and 1982, the late Baroque furnishings underwent significant restoration and refurbishment, ensuring that the church's interior retained its historical charm and splendor.

Intricate Furnishings and Art

The late Baroque furnishings, dating from 1760 to 1790, have been largely preserved. The main altar, created around 1785, boasts a wooden structure with four columns. Above the broken pediment, a pair of pilasters can be seen. The altarpiece, an oil painting on canvas measuring approximately 2.20 meters in height and 1.45 meters in width, depicts the Crucifixion, with Mary Magdalene at Christ's feet and three angels collecting His blood in chalices.

The two side altars are dedicated to Mary and St. Rochus. The Marian altar, located on the left side, features a shell niche flanked by two pairs of columns. In the niche stands a carved figure of the Madonna and Child, measuring 98 cm in height. The pediment's top features a dove, symbolizing the Holy Spirit. The St. Rochus altar, on the right side, displays an intricately carved figure of the saint pointing to a plague sore on his knee.

Flanking the main altar are two reliquary cabinets from around 1750 to 1760, adorned with elaborate shell motifs. Each cabinet contains a glass display case, with the left side housing relics of St. Ursula and her companions, as well as the martyrs of the Theban Legion. The relics in the right cabinet are unmarked, but a cross is prominently displayed in the center.

The Pulpit and Other Artistic Elements

The pulpit, dating from around 1785, features panels decorated with grape and garland motifs. The sounding board is crowned with an Eye of Providence set within a radiant halo. The richly adorned communion rail separates the chancel from the nave, with oval oil paintings depicting the Annunciation, the Adoration of the Magi, the Last Supper, and the Ascension of Christ. The central carved panels feature the Lamb of God, a chalice with a host, and grape and wheat sheaves.

The two confessionals, located along the nave's longitudinal walls, are adorned with laurel garlands. A figure of St. Anthony of Padua holding the Child Jesus stands on a Baroque console, painted in vibrant colors and measuring approximately 70 cm in height. A figure of St. George, created by an amateur artist, hangs to the left of the pulpit.

A 17th-century oil painting, measuring 280 x 160 cm, depicts the Adoration of the Shepherds. An angel in the upper section holds a banner with the inscription GLORIA IN EXCELSIS DEO. A Neo-Baroque church bench, located near the organ staircase, is richly decorated with shell motifs and curved cheeks.

The baptismal font's basin rests on an octagonal sandstone base, with a brass lid measuring 60 cm in height. The historic organ, built by the Verschueren company from Heythuysen towards the end of the 18th century, features 15 sounding registers and is operated via two manuals and a pedal.

The Bells of St. Georg Church

The church's bells are a significant feature, with the oldest bell, dedicated to Mary, dating back to 1631. This bell has a diameter of 150 cm and weighs 2,200 kg, producing a sound in the tone of E flat. Another bell from 1631, dedicated to St. George, has a diameter of 124 cm, weighs 1,250 kg, and sounds in the tone of F. The so-called weather bell, cast in 1732, sounds in the tone of E flat and weighs 100 kg with a diameter of 58 cm. A bell dedicated to Pope Pius X, cast in 1955, serves as the Angelus bell, with a diameter of 97 cm, weighing 550 kg, and sounding in the tone of A flat.

St. Georg Church is not just a place of worship; it is a treasure trove of history, art, and architectural beauty. A visit to this magnificent church offers a glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and devotion that went into creating this enduring symbol of faith and community. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, St. Georg Church in Bedburg is sure to leave a lasting impression.