Herforder Münster

The Herforder Münster, also known as the Herford Minster, stands as a beacon of historical and architectural grandeur in the heart of Herford, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. This magnificent edifice, the oldest and largest church in Herford, is now an Evangelical Lutheran parish church. Its rich history and stunning architecture make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this charming German town.

The History of Herforder Münster

The origins of the Herforder Münster date back to the 12th century when it served as the church of the Herford Abbey, a convent that enjoyed imperial immediacy until 1802 when it was annexed to Prussian Ravensberg. The construction of this late Romanesque hall church began around 1220 and continued until approximately 1250. It holds the distinction of being the first large hall church in Germany and remains one of the largest hall churches in Westphalia.

The church was originally a three-aisled structure with flank towers and an apse. Around 1340, the so-called Krämerchor was added southwest of the transept, featuring a crypt underneath. In the early 15th century, the choir was extended by one bay and given a straight end. During this period, the southern flank tower was replaced by a two-story structure known today as the confession chamber. The western twin-tower facade, with its only completed south tower, was constructed between 1270 and 1280, with the south tower reaching its final form in 1490.

Architectural Marvels

The Herforder Münster is a treasure trove of architectural styles, reflecting the evolution of church architecture over several centuries. The church’s windows are particularly noteworthy, showcasing a range of styles from Romanesque round arches to early Gothic trefoil arches. The south window, created in 1953 by the renowned Marburg glass painter Erhardt Klonk, depicts the parable of the Good Samaritan. Another fascinating feature is the Seven Suns window above the south portal, a unique early Gothic biforium adorned with seven gilded suns. The symbolism of these suns remains a mystery, with various legends and theories attempting to explain their significance.

Exploring the Interior

Stepping inside the Herforder Münster, visitors are greeted by a stunning interior that showcases the church’s historical and artistic heritage. The ribbed vaults of the church exhibit a hierarchy in their design, with the bay west of the crossing featuring a complete eight-part domical vault. The capitals also reflect the stylistic development of the building, ranging from Romanesque chalice block capitals in the east to Gothic bud and leaf capitals in the nave and south transept.

A highlight of the interior is the late Gothic high altar, dating from the time of the choir extension. While only the altar table and predella remain today, it is unclear whether there was ever a corresponding altarpiece or if the massive tracery window above served as a luminous altarpiece. The most significant piece of the church’s furnishings is the baptismal font from 1500, adorned with statues of saints and lively biblical scenes in relief. This font is located in the crypt-like baptismal chapel beneath the so-called dormitory gallery.

The Organs

The Herforder Münster is home to five organs, each with its unique history and characteristics. The main organ, located on the west gallery, was built between 1949 and 1951 by the organ-building company Förster & Nicolaus. This instrument has undergone several modifications and expansions over the years, including the addition of a solo work in 2006. The Schwalbennest organ, also known as the Heinrich Schütz or Zuberbier-Ott organ, dates back to 1756 and was originally built for the parish church in Friedewalde. It was later relocated to Herford and incorporated into a new organ by Paul Ott in 1953.

The Bells

The tower of the Herforder Münster houses eleven bells, making it one of the most significant bell ensembles in an Evangelical church in Germany. The core of the bell ensemble consists of three medieval bells: the Gloriosa and Benedicta, both dating from around 1300, and the Mary or Sermon bell from 1444. These bells are among the heaviest of their time in Westphalia. In 1956, two new bells were added to relieve the valuable old ones, and during a comprehensive restoration of the bell system, four additional bells were cast by the Bachert bell foundry. Including the two clock strike bells from the 12th and 15th centuries, the Münster bell ensemble is a remarkable testament to the church’s historical significance.

In conclusion, the Herforder Münster is not just a church; it is a living monument to centuries of history, faith, and architectural evolution. Its walls and towers have witnessed countless events and transformations, making it a fascinating destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Herford. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, the Herforder Münster promises an unforgettable experience filled with awe and inspiration.