Glockenmuseum Stiftskirche Herrenberg

Nestled in the charming town of Herrenberg in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, the Glockenmuseum Stiftskirche Herrenberg, known locally as the Glockenmuseum, offers a unique auditory and historical experience unlike any other. This enchanting museum is housed within the Stiftskirche, a magnificent church that stands as a testament to centuries of architectural and cultural evolution.

The History of Glockenmuseum Stiftskirche Herrenberg

The Glockenmuseum Stiftskirche Herrenberg was established in 1990, thanks to the visionary efforts of the then-dean of Herrenberg, Dieter Eisenhardt. The museum is coordinated by the Verein zur Erhaltung der Stiftskirche, an organization dedicated to preserving the church's rich heritage. What sets this museum apart is its collection of bells that are not merely relics of the past but continue to fulfill their traditional roles. Among them is the Armsünderglocke, renowned as the oldest preserved bell in Württemberg.

Visitors to the museum can observe the bells in action, witnessing their rhythmic dance as they mark the passage of time and celebrate various liturgical moments. The museum's collection is built around the Gloriosa, with its nominal b0, forming a harmonious scale spanning two and a half octaves.

Exploring the Bell Collection

The Glockenmuseum Stiftskirche Herrenberg boasts an impressive array of bells, including the original Herrenberg chimes and various newly cast bells. It also features unique pieces from former German eastern territories. Among the highlights are a Gothic Zuckerhutglocke and a reproduction of a bee-skeined bell over 850 years old from Thuringia, alongside exemplary modern bell-making artistry.

The museum's Zimbelgeläut includes eleven new bells crafted by eight different foundries across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Historically, the museum showcases the entire history of German bell-making, with 36 ringable bells, the largest such ensemble in Europe. Additionally, there are 50 playable carillon bells and an hourly striking bell, with others mounted for manual striking with a hammer or clapper. Of the approximately 120 bells, nearly 100 are still audible today.

The Enchanting Glockenweg

Since 2009, the path from the train station to the Stiftskirche and its Glockenmuseum has been marked by about 40 paving stones embedded in the ground, guiding visitors effortlessly to their destination. These markers, crafted from bell bronze and installed by the local technical services, are a gift from the city of Herrenberg. They feature the museum's logo, with the tip of the stylized onion dome pointing towards the museum, and the inscription Glockenmuseum Stiftskirche under the heading Glockenweg.

The Musical Experience

Visitors to the Glockenmuseum Stiftskirche Herrenberg are treated to a regular schedule of bell concerts, held on the first Saturday of each month. These concerts feature not only the main bell ensemble but also the Zimbelgeläut and often the carillon. The sequence and combination of the bell ringing are typically determined by campanologists or the pastors of the Evangelical Church community in Herrenberg.

In addition to these regular concerts, the museum hosts carillon concerts by national and international carillonneurs, offering a delightful auditory experience that resonates with history and culture.

A Journey Through Time

The Glockenmuseum Stiftskirche Herrenberg is not just a museum; it is a journey through time. It captures the essence of the region's history, from the ancient bells that have marked the passage of centuries to the modern innovations in bell-making. The museum's collection is a living testament to the enduring legacy of craftsmanship and tradition.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a music lover, or simply someone seeking a unique cultural experience, the Glockenmuseum Stiftskirche Herrenberg offers something for everyone. Its bells tell stories of the past while continuing to play an active role in the present, making it a must-visit destination in the picturesque town of Herrenberg.