St. Remigius

In the heart of Borken, North Rhine-Westphalia, stands the majestic St. Remigius Church, a beacon of history and faith that has withstood the test of time. This Catholic parish church, the oldest in Borken, is not just a place of worship but a testament to the architectural evolution and historical significance that spans centuries.

The Rich History of St. Remigius

The story of St. Remigius is deeply intertwined with the history of Borken. Its origins can be traced back to the late 8th century when excavations around 1950 revealed remnants of a Carolingian wooden church. By around 1150, this wooden structure was replaced by a Romanesque stone church, with the lower levels of the tower being the oldest surviving parts from this period. Initially, a single-nave structure, it later expanded to include two side aisles.

The church's significance grew exponentially in the 15th century, thanks to Johannes Walling, a native of Borken. After studying in Rome and becoming a papal chaplain under Pope Eugene IV, Walling's influence led to the elevation of St. Remigius to a collegiate church in 1433. This transformation marked the beginning of the construction of the late Gothic, three-aisled hall church that forms the core of the present-day structure. Further expansions in the late 19th century saw the addition of a fourth bay and a new choir in the Neo-Gothic style.

Architectural Marvels

St. Remigius is a treasure trove of architectural delights. The church's three-aisled hall structure, with its cross-ribbed vaults resting on round pillars, is a sight to behold. The tower, flanked by the Marienkapelle (formerly the Michaelskapelle) to the north and the Kreuzkapelle to the south, stands as a testament to the church's historical layers. The Marienkapelle, dating back to 1455, and the Kreuzkapelle, from 1468, add to the church's rich architectural tapestry.

One of the most intriguing features is the (All Saints) or Ölberg Chapel, with its western stepped gable. Although it once housed an Ölberg group, it now serves as the sacristy. The church suffered significant damage during World War II in March 1945 but was meticulously rebuilt in the early 1950s, preserving its historical essence while incorporating modern elements.

Exquisite Interior and Artifacts

Stepping inside St. Remigius, visitors are greeted with a wealth of historical artifacts and artworks. The oldest piece is the Bentheim baptismal font, now located in the choir. This font, adorned with two human and two lion-like figures, symbolizes the tree of life. Although the original stone lid crafted by sculptor August Schmiemann was destroyed during World War II, the font remains a significant relic of the church's past.

Another notable artifact is the Borkener Gabelkruzifix, a unique crucifix from the first half of the 14th century, hanging on the east wall of the south aisle. During its restoration in 1953, a wooden relic wrapped in parchment with the inscription From the wood or beam, nailed under the feet of Jesus Christ by Pilate was discovered in the head of the corpus.

The Marienkapelle houses a 15th-century Holy Sepulcher representation, featuring a nearly life-sized sculpture of the entombed Christ, accompanied by painted figures of the burial scene. Also in this chapel is a colorful Pietà made of oak, dating back to the same period. The Kreuzkapelle is home to a 500-year-old figure of St. Anne with the Virgin and Child, also carved from oak. Despite the destruction of many original furnishings in 1945, a sandstone statue of the Virgin Mary from the 15th century has survived and remains in the Marienkapelle.

The Organs and Musical Heritage

Music has always played a vital role in the life of St. Remigius. The church boasts two magnificent organs: a three-manual main organ on the west gallery and a two-manual choir organ. The original organ, destroyed during World War II, was replaced in 1952 by an instrument built by Franz Breil. However, the current main organ, constructed by Siegfried Sauer between 1986 and 1989, is a marvel of modern organ building. With 52 stops, mechanical action, and electric stop action, this organ is a testament to the church's commitment to musical excellence.

A Living Legacy

St. Remigius is not just a historical monument; it is a living, breathing part of the Borken community. The church continues to serve as a place of worship, a cultural hub, and a symbol of the town's resilience and faith. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to St. Remigius offers a profound and enriching experience, connecting you to centuries of history and tradition.

In conclusion, St. Remigius Church stands as a beacon of faith, history, and architectural splendor in the heart of Borken. Its rich past, stunning architecture, and vibrant community life make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this charming town in North Rhine-Westphalia. As you walk through its hallowed halls and admire its historical treasures, you will undoubtedly feel the timeless spirit that has made St. Remigius a cornerstone of Borken's heritage.