The St. Paulus Church in Göttingen, nestled in the picturesque lower eastern quarter of the city, is a splendid example of neo-Baroque architecture, rich in history and cultural significance. This magnificent Catholic parish church stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of the Catholic community in a predominantly Protestant region. Its story is one of perseverance, artistic vision, and community effort, making it a must-visit location for anyone exploring the historical tapestry of Göttingen.
The foundation of St. Paulus Church marks a significant chapter in the city's religious history. Construction began in 1927, almost 150 years after the first post-Reformation Catholic church, St. Michael, was built in Göttingen. The initiative for this new church was spearheaded by Father Johannes Maring, who arrived in Göttingen in 1921. Despite the challenges of establishing a Catholic presence in a Protestant-dominated city, Father Maring's vision persisted.
The land acquisition for the church was a clandestine affair, facilitated through an evangelical intermediary in 1926. Funding was a community-driven effort, with contributions pouring in from local and international donors, supplemented by the Bonifatiuswerk. On November 14, 1927, the first spade broke ground, and by February 26, 1928, the cornerstone was laid. The church was consecrated on July 21, 1929, by Bishop Nikolaus Bares of Hildesheim, dedicated to the Apostle Paul, and celebrated with a grand festival.
Designed by architect Adam Weinhag, St. Paulus Church is an exquisite example of neo-Baroque architecture, a style chosen to reflect the traditional values of the Catholic diaspora community. Weinhag, known for his work on the Redemptorist Monastery of St. Klemens in Heiligenstadt, brought a similar aesthetic to St. Paulus, emphasizing a blend of historical reverence and artistic elegance.
The church presents a grand west façade with a gable, a protruding entrance hall, and a balcony flanked by two stout corner towers. Its exterior walls, crafted from weather-resistant shell limestone from Heiligenstadt, exhibit a striking contrast between rough-hewn surfaces and finely detailed elements like pilasters and window frames. A prominent clock and bell tower, donated by the city of Göttingen, adds to the church's commanding presence.
Inside, the church boasts a vast nave flanked by narrow aisles, leading to a choir ambulatory. The light Rabitz vault of the nave, supported by steel cables, creates an airy yet monumental space. Although many original liturgical furnishings were replaced post-1958 due to Vatican II reforms, some treasures remain, including stained glass windows by Wilhelm Hallermann and a baroque-style ceiling painting by Eduard Goldkuhle, depicting the Apotheosis of St. Paul.
The church underwent significant interior redesigns, the most recent in 2018, led by interior architect Bernd Rokahr. This renovation introduced a fresh color scheme and modern lighting, enhancing the church's spiritual ambiance while preserving its historical essence.
Music plays a vital role in the life of St. Paulus Church. The main organ, built by the Gebr. Krell company and inaugurated in 1956, features 39 registers and is renowned for its symphonic sound. It is a centerpiece for both liturgical and concert performances, offering a unique auditory experience in Göttingen.
Complementing the main organ is a chest organ crafted by Daniel Gruber, which allows for versatile musical expression, adapting to different tuning standards. This organ is frequently used for smaller services and intimate concerts.
The church's bell ensemble, originally a five-bell bronze set, was partially lost during World War II. However, three baroque godparent bells from Silesia were acquired in 1951, adding historical depth and a melodious charm to the church's soundscape.
St. Paulus Church is not just an architectural gem but a vibrant community hub. It hosts an array of religious and cultural activities, drawing people from diverse backgrounds. The Singkreis St. Paulus choir, established in 1954, enriches the church's services with a repertoire spanning from Renaissance to modern compositions.
In conclusion, St. Paulus Church stands as a beacon of faith, history, and artistic achievement in Göttingen. Its walls echo the stories of a community's dedication and resilience, making it an essential destination for anyone seeking to understand the cultural and spiritual fabric of this charming city.
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
