St. Peter und Paul Church in Eschweiler, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, stands as a majestic testament to the town's rich history and architectural prowess. This grand edifice, the largest church in Eschweiler, is not only a prominent landmark but also one of the oldest churches in the Diocese of Aachen. Nestled on a small hill north of the Inde River, the church's imposing structure, built from red brick, is a sight to behold and can be seen from afar, dominating the skyline with its towering presence.
The parish of St. Peter und Paul encompasses the main parish church itself along with three filial churches: St. Michael in the western city center, Herz Jesu in the Ost district, and St. Antonius in the Röhe district. The dual patronage of the church, dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul, is celebrated on June 29th, while St. Michael's feast day is observed on September 29th. Although there are legends about the church originally being named St. Michael before Eschweiler came under the jurisdiction of the Cologne Cathedral, these claims remain unverified and are likely apocryphal. Nevertheless, one of the side altars is dedicated to St. Michael, and a statue of him is prominently displayed.
The origins of St. Peter und Paul Church can be traced back to a chapel from the Carolingian royal estate Fundus Regius Ascvilare, mentioned by Einhard in 828. The existence of this wooden chapel is documented as early as 779. Excavations have revealed remnants suggesting a Romanesque initial structure. The lower part of the current tower, dating from the 14th century, is a surviving relic of the original Romanesque construction.
In 1678, the church, along with the entire town of Eschweiler, was set ablaze by the troops of Louis XIV. Remarkably, the valuable leather Pietà was saved from the flames by three men who, according to legend, caught fire themselves during the rescue. The rebuilding process was slow, and by 1690, the nave still lacked a vault, with only the choir vault completed. The poor condition of the Gothic hall church following the 1678 fire, coupled with the rapidly growing congregation in the 19th and 20th centuries, necessitated several expansions and renovations.
In 1880, the choir and side chapels were demolished to make way for a new transept, a spacious choir, and two sacristies. Further modifications in 1904 included the demolition of the old nave and the addition of new north and south chapels, which now serve as the baptismal and war memorial chapels, respectively. The tower was also heightened to 75 meters with a new spire in 1906. However, the church suffered extensive damage during World War II, with bombings in 1943 and artillery fire in 1944 causing significant destruction.
Post-war restoration efforts culminated in the 1970s with interior renovations and roof repairs. The organ, installed in 1954, remains a centerpiece for church concerts. A new bronze statue of St. Michael was erected in 1985, and the reconstructed spire was inaugurated in 1986, though some locals still debate its historical authenticity, viewing the spireless church as a wartime symbol.
The church is home to numerous fascinating artifacts and artworks that draw visitors from near and far.
One of the most remarkable pieces is the 125-centimeter-high, 70-kilogram hollow calf leather Pietà from the 14th century, housed in the southern war memorial chapel. This rare artifact, one of only three in Germany, depicts Christ on the lap of his mother Mary. The figure is crafted from multiple layers of leather and linen, with wooden hands and a clay modeling base for fine details and painting. This lightweight construction was likely intended for processional use. The Pietà's survival through the 1678 fire and its rediscovery in 1870 underscore its historical and cultural significance.
The altar, a 1975 bronze and stone sculpture, and the tabernacle, a copper and silver repoussé work with enamel images, are notable features of the church. Above the tabernacle, a phoenix symbolizing Christ's resurrection soars, adding a profound spiritual dimension to the altar area.
The baptismal font, dating from the 16th century and encased in an Empire-style iron grille from around 1770, is another highlight. This historic piece is located in the northern baptismal chapel, offering a glimpse into the church's long-standing sacramental traditions.
The main portal, crafted from copper in 1953, features intricate depictions of the patron saints Peter and Paul, the dragon-slayer St. Michael, and a peacock symbolizing Christ's glory.
The golden rooster atop the tower, installed during the 1904 renovation, and the weather vane on the roof from 1954 are distinctive elements. The tower's golden rooster, stolen during the 1986 spire reconstruction, was later returned anonymously, much to the community's relief.
The bronze Way of the Cross, created in 1955, and the 1952 bronze sculpture of St. Michael in the confessional chapel are noteworthy for their artistic and devotional significance. Additionally, a bronze statue of St. Michael, crafted by Aachen sculptor Bonifatius Stirnberg, was installed near the tower in 1985, further enriching the church's artistic heritage.
St. Peter und Paul Church in Eschweiler is not just a place of worship but a repository of history, art, and community spirit. Its towering presence, rich historical tapestry, and artistic treasures make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the cultural and spiritual heritage of North Rhine-Westphalia.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.
Buy Gift Vouchers
