St. Jakobus

St. Jakobus, known locally as St.-Jacobus-Kirche, stands as a beacon of historical and architectural significance in the charming town of Hilden, located in the North Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany. As the main church of the Roman Catholic parish of St. Jacobus Hilden, this Neo-Gothic masterpiece invites visitors to delve into its rich past and marvel at its intricate design.

The History of St. Jakobus

The origins of St. Jakobus trace back to the days before the end of the Thirty Years' War (1618–1648). Initially dedicated to St. Jacobus Maior (the Elder), the original church was situated at the current market square. However, the aftermath of the Thirty Years' War and the stipulations of the Treaty of Westphalia in 1648 led to significant changes. The Roman Catholic community was forced to vacate their church, which was then taken over by the Reformed congregation in 1650. Bereft of a place of worship, the Catholic community conducted services in a fortified building known as the Stockshaus.

By 1680, Pastor Franz Rütger Gerretz had acquired a house at Ulrichskuhle, which later became known as the Kirchenhaus. This site saw the construction of a small wooden church in 1682, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Catholic community in Hilden. As the town industrialized in the 18th century, the Catholic population grew, necessitating a more substantial place of worship. In 1745, a stone church was built on the site of the wooden church, using stones from a local quarry. This church was consecrated in 1749 and dedicated to St. Jacobus the Elder.

The burgeoning Catholic population soon outgrew the stone church, leading to the construction of the current brick church between 1872 and 1882. The design was initially conceived by the Münster architect August Rincklake, with modifications by the Franciscan brother Paschalis. The construction was carried out by the Hilden-based firm Carl Nebel. The church's tower, a blend of the old stone base and a new brick structure, stands as a testament to its layered history. The new church was consecrated in 1891 by the Auxiliary Bishop of Cologne, Anton Fischer.

Architectural Marvels

St. Jakobus is a Neo-Gothic architectural gem, characterized by its three-aisled structure, abundant columns, and captivating capitals. The main and side aisles each consist of six bays, with semi-circular arcades supported by robust black columns adorned with floral capitals. The Romanesque arcades leading to the side aisles rest on square pillars with decorative columns, while the cross-ribbed vault in soft red hues contrasts beautifully with the grey half-columns and red trapezoidal capitals embellished with delicate foliage motifs.

Stained Glass Windows

One of the most striking features of St. Jakobus is its collection of stained glass windows, which envelop the space in a kaleidoscope of colors and intricate designs. Created between 1895 and 1902 by the royal Saxon court glass painting company Hertel & Lersch of Düsseldorf, these windows depict a range of religious figures and scenes. The windows were funded through donations from Catholic associations, parish clergy, and individual parishioners, with the donors' names inscribed in the glass.

The windows in the main nave form a cohesive cycle, showcasing eight saints. Each saint is centrally positioned within the window, surrounded by unique ornamental patterns. Notable figures include Aloisius of Gonzaga, Bernard of Clairvaux, and Sebastian on the north side, and Francis of Assisi, Francis de Sales, Mary Magdalene, Cecilia of Rome, and Vincent de Paul on the south side. These windows were generously donated by various Catholic associations and individuals, reflecting the community's deep connection to their faith and church.

Chor and Side Chapels

The chancel and side chapels of St. Jakobus are equally captivating. The windows in the Marian chapel, located behind the Marian altar with the Pietà, are dedicated to St. Elizabeth of Thuringia and the Virgin Mary presenting the rosary to St. Dominic. These windows, donated by the St. Elizabeth Association and the Living Rosary Association, depict scenes from the lives of their respective saints, adding a layer of narrative to the church's visual splendor.

The main chancel windows illustrate key events from the life of Jesus Christ, with the leftmost window focusing on the crucifixion. These windows, like the others, were funded through the generosity of the parish community and regular Sunday collections.

Modern Enhancements

In recent years, the windows of St. Jakobus have undergone restoration to preserve their beauty and historical significance. From 1992 to 1998, the windows were meticulously restored by the Hein Derix workshops for glass painting in Kevelaer. This restoration included re-leading the windows and adding protective glazing, ensuring that these masterpieces continue to inspire awe for generations to come.

St. Jakobus is not just a place of worship; it is a living museum of art, history, and community spirit. Its walls and windows tell the story of a resilient congregation that has weathered centuries of change, always emerging stronger and more united. A visit to St. Jakobus is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of Hilden's Catholic community.