St. Nikolaus Church, affectionately known as the Krippkirche, is a hidden gem nestled in the picturesque town of Füssen, Bavaria. This charming baroque church, with its rich history and artistic treasures, offers a unique glimpse into the region's religious and cultural heritage. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to St. Nikolaus promises an enriching experience.
The origins of St. Nikolaus Church date back to the early 18th century, but its story begins even earlier. In 1611, the Jesuits arrived in Füssen and converted a stable into a humble chapel dedicated to Our Lady of the Crib. However, when they departed in 1627, the Franciscans took over, eventually moving to a new monastery. The chapel fell into neglect until the Bishop of Augsburg transferred it to the Füssen chapter in 1641.
In 1717, Abbot of the Benedictine Monastery St. Mang commissioned the renowned architect Johann Jakob Herkomer to construct a new church on the site of the old chapel. Herkomer, who had recently redesigned the St. Mang Monastery, began work on what would become St. Nikolaus Church. Sadly, Herkomer passed away shortly after construction began, but his nephew, Johann Georg Fischer, completed the project in 1718. The church was named St. Nikolaus, honoring the former Nikolaus Chapel that had been converted into a crypt.
As you approach St. Nikolaus, you'll immediately notice its elegant baroque facade, characterized by a volute gable and a central axis adorned with a soaring arched niche. The church's narrow, elongated single-nave design is topped with a saddle roof and a small roof turret, creating a harmonious blend with the surrounding buildings. The entrance, accessed by a few steps above street level, hints at the church's foundation over a neighboring cellar vault.
Inside, the church's architecture continues to impress with its understated stucco work and a stunning high altar crafted from stucco marble by Dominikus Zimmermann in 1719. The altar's focal point is an oil painting depicting Mary adoring the Christ Child in the crib, a nod to the church's origins. This artwork, begun by Herkomer and completed by Franz Georg Hermann in 1721, captures the essence of the Krippkirche.
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St. Nikolaus is a treasure trove of artistic wonders. The high altar is flanked by niches housing figures of St. Ulrich and St. Augustine, crafted around 1720 by artists from Anton Sturm's circle. These figures were relocated from a chapel on the Kalvarienberg in the mid-20th century.
Above the choir, a fresco by Joseph Obermiller from 1719 depicts St. Nicholas, adding a celestial touch to the church's interior. The side altars feature wooden sculptures of St. Nicholas and the Mater Dolorosa, attributed to Thomas Seitz around 1720. A striking mission cross with two crossbars and a figure of Christ, also by Seitz, graces the right side wall.
On the left side wall, a large painting of the Transfiguration of Christ by Balthasar Riepp, originally from the high altar of the St. Mang Monastery church, adds a dramatic flair to the church's artistic collection.
St. Nikolaus Church is not just a relic of the past; it remains a vibrant part of Füssen's community life. In addition to serving the Catholic parish community, the church also hosts services for the Syrian Orthodox congregation, reflecting its role as a place of spiritual gathering and cultural exchange.
The church underwent extensive renovations from 1978 to 1980, ensuring the preservation of its architectural and artistic heritage. Today, it stands proudly as a listed building in the Bavarian Monument List, a testament to its enduring significance.
Located on Reichenstraße, Füssen's historic main thoroughfare turned pedestrian zone, St. Nikolaus is easily accessible and a delightful stop for anyone exploring the town. As you stroll along this charming street, the church's facade invites you to step inside and discover its hidden treasures.
Whether you're captivated by its history, enchanted by its art, or simply seeking a moment of reflection, St. Nikolaus Church offers a serene escape into a world where past and present beautifully intertwine. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this enchanting corner of Füssen, where every detail tells a story of devotion and artistry.
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