Nestled in the charming Bavarian town of Eggenfelden, the Pfarrkirche St. Georg stands as a testament to centuries of architectural evolution and religious devotion. This enchanting church, with its striking yellow façade and distinctive onion-domed tower, invites visitors to step back in time and explore a rich tapestry of history and artistry.
The origins of Pfarrkirche St. Georg trace back to the 13th century, when it is believed that a church was first established by the noble Herren von Geren. By 1315, the Closen family had taken over the Hofmark, marking the beginning of a long association with the church. The original Romanesque structure, dating from 1418, was a simple single-nave building, typical of the era, with a rounded apse and a narrow entrance.
In the mid-15th century, the church underwent a significant transformation. The Romanesque building was expanded and elevated in the late Gothic style, much of which still defines its appearance today. The addition of a choir, funded by Alban von Closen, marked the completion of this phase, symbolized by the Eternal Light lamp—a beacon of divine presence and fulfillment of ecclesiastical duties.
The church's exterior is a delightful fusion of Gothic and Baroque elements. The 30-meter-high Baroque tower, attributed to architect Matthias Weidtinger, is a prominent feature, crowned with a characteristic onion dome. This tower not only serves as a visual landmark but also houses a set of bells that have been renewed twice in the 20th century, following the losses of the World Wars.
Surrounding the church is a cemetery that holds the graves of the Closen family and other notable local figures, with epitaphs dating back to 1461. The church itself is a late Gothic buttressed structure, retaining original features such as pointed arch windows, portals, and the ribbed vaulting in the bell tower and the Closen Chapel.
Inside, the church is a treasure trove of artistic and historical artifacts. The Closen coat of arms is prominently displayed throughout, a nod to the family's enduring legacy. The Baroque period brought about significant changes, with the removal of ribbed vaults to create expansive ceiling spaces, adorned by Eggenfelden artist Antoni Scheitler in 1763. His frescoes depict heavenly scenes, including the Holy Trinity and St. George's ascent, offering a glimpse into the celestial realm.
The church's altars are exquisite examples of Baroque craftsmanship. The high altar, flanked by elegant columns, features a painting of St. George by Johann P. Ehrmiller. Meanwhile, the side altars, though no longer present, were once adorned with intricate carvings by Wenzel Jorhan, whose work also includes the surviving angel figures and column capitals.
The church's musical heritage is embodied in its organ, housed in a case from 1900. The current pipework, installed in 1986-87 by the Weise company, continues to fill the sacred space with harmonious melodies. The bells, cast by the renowned Rudolf Perner foundry, ring out over Eggenfelden, echoing the passage of time and the resilience of faith.
Beyond the church walls, visitors can explore the remnants of the moat that once encircled both the church and the nearby Schloss Gern. Although the water no longer flows, the landscape retains a sense of medieval fortification, a reminder of the church's protective role in the community.
Today, Pfarrkirche St. Georg is not only a place of worship but also a vibrant part of the local community. Its history is celebrated annually on St. George's Day, April 23, a tradition that harks back to the church's patron saint. This celebration, once linked to a bustling market day, continues to foster a sense of community and continuity.
In conclusion, Pfarrkirche St. Georg is more than a historical monument; it is a living symbol of the enduring spirit of Eggenfelden. Its walls tell stories of devotion, artistry, and resilience, inviting visitors to reflect on the passage of time and the unyielding strength of faith. Whether you are drawn by its architectural beauty, its rich history, or its serene atmosphere, a visit to this remarkable church is a journey through the heart of Bavaria's cultural and spiritual heritage.
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