Stadtkirche St. Marien

The Stadtkirche St. Marien in Celle, Lower Saxony, Germany, is a remarkable edifice that stands as a testament to centuries of architectural evolution and religious significance. As the main preaching church of the evangelical-lutheran church district of Celle, it holds a central place in the spiritual and cultural life of the city.

The History of Stadtkirche St. Marien

The origins of Stadtkirche St. Marien date back to 1292, during the time of Duke Otto II the Strict, who established the new settlement of Celle. This marked the beginning of a new era, and the construction of the church was an integral part of this development. The church was initially a purely Gothic structure, built using bricks and fieldstones, and was consecrated in 1308 to our dear lady – the Virgin Mary.

Over the centuries, the church underwent numerous modifications and expansions. In 1516, it received its first tower, which was replaced by a bell tower in 1530. The bell tower was further enhanced in 1532 with the addition of a clock house. By 1576, the bell tower was replaced with a roof turret, which was later replaced again in 1717 with the current roof turret. The addition of a new church tower in 1913, standing at 74 meters tall, gave the church its distinctive silhouette. The clocks in the tower have evolved from mechanical to computer-controlled systems, reflecting the advancements in technology over the years.

The Interior and Artistry

Upon entering Stadtkirche St. Marien, visitors are greeted by a rich tapestry of artistic and historical elements. The oldest artwork in the church is a medieval crucifixion group from around 1495, depicting Jesus on the cross with Mary and John standing below. This poignant piece of art is a focal point in the choir area.

The pillars leading to the choir, adorned with Gothic ribbed arches, feature statues of Peter and Paul. The church's stucco work, intricately designed with angels and plants, adds to the celestial ambiance. The epitaphs in the choir are memorial stones dedicated to the Dukes of Brunswick-Lüneburg, who resided in Celle from the 15th century onwards.

The pulpit, crafted by Danish artisans, and the winged altar, which showcases the transition from the late Renaissance to the Baroque period, are other notable features. The northern gallery displays paintings from the New Testament, while the southern gallery features scenes from the Old Testament, creating a visual Bible for the congregation.

The Organ

The church's organ is a masterpiece in itself. The richly carved organ facade dates back to 1653, donated by Duke Christian Ludwig. The instrument, originally built by Hermann Kröger and Berendt Hus, was expanded by Martin Vater between 1685 and 1687. In 1999, the organ was meticulously restored and reconstructed according to the original plans, with additional work by organ builder Rowan West. Today, the organ boasts a range of registers across three manuals and a pedal, offering a magnificent auditory experience.

The Princely Crypt

The Princely Crypt, still owned by the House of Welf, houses the elaborate sarcophagus of Duke George William, as well as the sarcophagus of his mistress and later wife, the Frenchwoman Eleonore d’Olbreuse, and their daughter Sophie Dorothea, known as the Princess of Ahlden. This crypt is a solemn reminder of the church's historical connections to the nobility.

The Tower and Bells

Visitors can ascend the 74-meter-high tower from April to the end of October, offering a panoramic view of Celle and its surroundings. The tower houses a set of four bells, with the largest being the Peace Bell, cast in 2008 by the Bachert bell foundry in Karlsruhe. This bell was inaugurated on the first Advent of that year, commemorating the church's 700th anniversary. The other three Baroque bells, which were previously housed under the church roof, were restored and now hang alongside the Peace Bell in a wooden bell frame.

The tower also features two steel clock-strike bells, cast in 2008, that chime the hours and quarters, adding to the church's auditory presence in the city.

Conclusion

Stadtkirche St. Marien is not just a place of worship but a living museum of art, history, and architecture. Its walls echo the stories of the past, from its Gothic beginnings to its Baroque embellishments and modern restorations. A visit to this church offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual and cultural heritage of Celle, making it an unmissable destination for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.