Co-Cathedral of the Ascension of the Lord, Kecskemét

The Co-Cathedral of the Ascension of the Lord, locally known as Nagytemplom, stands as a magnificent testament to the rich history and architectural splendor of Kecskemét, Hungary. This grand edifice, the largest church in the city and the Kiskunság region, has been captivating visitors since its construction between 1774 and 1806. Designed by the Piarist monk Gaspar Oswald in the Copf style—a late Baroque architectural style with classical influences—the cathedral is an iconic landmark that offers a glimpse into Hungary’s ecclesiastical and cultural heritage.

Historical Significance

The construction of the Co-Cathedral of the Ascension of the Lord began in 1774 and spanned over three decades. The project was overseen by Fischer Boldizsár, who directed the building efforts with meticulous attention to detail. The roof’s wooden structure was crafted by Marton Hausperger, a local master carpenter from Kecskemét. The tower’s spire, completed between 1803 and 1806, is adorned with a copper sheet covering that weighs an impressive 59 quintals. Despite a devastating fire in 1819 that destroyed the tower, it was rebuilt by 1863, achieving its current elegant proportions.

Architectural Marvel

The Co-Cathedral’s exterior is a stunning example of Copf architecture, characterized by its classical elements. The façade up to the tympanum is lined with Ionic half-columns, while the tower features Corinthian pilasters that extend up to the spire. The entrance, framed in red marble, is complemented by an arched window above, creating a harmonious blend of textures and forms. The side elevations of the building are symmetrically designed, with each section featuring arched windows of varying sizes, culminating in a grand arched window in the fourth section. The rear façade concludes with a rectangular sanctuary, adding a touch of solemnity to the structure.

Sculptures and Memorials

Adorning the exterior of the cathedral are several notable sculptures and memorials. Above the entrance, a sculptural group depicts Jesus handing the keys to Heaven to Saint Peter. On the parapet beside the tower, statues of the four Evangelists—Luke, Matthew, Mark, and John—each holding a book and writing instrument, along with their unique symbols, capture the attention of onlookers. The exterior walls also feature three memorial plaques commemorating the heroes of the 1848–49 Revolution and War of Independence, as well as those who perished in World War I and World War II. The niches on the main façade house statues of Saint Stephen and Saint Ladislaus, while the tympanum showcases a bas-relief of the Patrona Hungariae (Our Lady of Hungary).

The Tower

One of the cathedral’s most striking features is its 35-meter-high tower, which offers a unique vantage point over the city during the summer months. The tower houses one of Hungary’s oldest and largest tower clocks, crafted by Johann Manhardt in 1889. This historic timepiece, with its 242-centimeter-long minute hand, continues to keep accurate time and chimes every quarter-hour. The clock’s mechanism is manually wound each morning with a half-meter-long key, a tradition that has persisted since its installation. The tower’s watchroom, located behind an arched window, serves as a heated space for firewatching, while the bells reside behind a rectangular grilled window below the balcony.

Interior Grandeur

Stepping inside the Co-Cathedral of the Ascension of the Lord, visitors are greeted by a monumental space measuring 62 meters in length, 25 meters in width, and approximately 20-25 meters in height. The interior, decorated in late Baroque style, is richly adorned with frescoes and biblical figures. The wall decorations were created by Ferenc Lohr, while the ceiling frescoes, including the dome and sanctuary frescoes, were painted by Ignác Roskovics. The first ceiling fresco depicts the massive tower of Kecskemét’s Old Church, guarded by Archangels Michael and Gabriel. The central fresco features Saint Nicholas, the city’s patron saint, receiving a goat kid from an elderly shepherd, with the coat of arms of Kecskemét held by an angel above them. The largest fresco, located in the sanctuary dome, spans 14 meters in diameter and depicts Hungarian saints, kings, and beatified individuals paying homage to Mary, the Patroness of Hungary.

Side Altars

The cathedral houses six side altars, each with its own unique artistic significance. On the left side, the first altar depicts Saint Joseph, a work by Gyula Merész, replacing the earlier Saint Elizabeth altar. The second altar, known as the Peach Blossom Mary, is considered the most beautiful and valuable, portraying an imaginary visit of Mary to Kecskemét. The third altar, the oldest among the seven, features Saint Stephen offering the Holy Crown to Mary. On the right side, the first altar near the entrance is dedicated to the Sorrowful Mother, depicting Mary holding the body of Jesus. The central altar is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, replacing the earlier Saint Margaret altar, while the last altar, closest to the sanctuary, portrays Saints Peter and Paul bidding farewell to each other. The triumphal arch separating the nave from the sanctuary is adorned with frescoes of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, while the entrance to the sacristy is marked by an enlarged replica of the old parish seal. The pulpit, dating back to 1790, stands on the left side, adorned with a fruit bouquet at its base.

The Sanctuary

The most dynamic part of the cathedral is the sanctuary, featuring a 24-square-meter main altarpiece painted in 1778, depicting the Ascension of Christ, from which the cathedral derives its title. The original main altarpiece, created by Ferenc Falkoner, now stands to the right of the entrance. The sanctuary dome fresco, depicting the Apocalypse, features a figure representing the Father with a dove symbolizing the Holy Spirit above.

The Organ

Above the entrance, a spacious gallery extends over the side aisles, housing a grand organ that befits the cathedral’s dimensions. The organ, with three manuals, a pedalboard, and 48 registers, is well-suited for concerts. The original organ, acquired from the Invalidus House Church in Pest in 1784, was replaced in 1885 by a new organ built by Sándor Országh. After sustaining damage during the 1911 earthquake, the organ was repaired and later rebuilt by the renowned Angster organ-building company. The current organ, rebuilt in 1992, retains the original pipes and features an additional register.

The Crypt and Bells

Beneath the cathedral lies a crypt, adding to the historical depth of the site. The cathedral’s three bells, each with its own unique story, include the 2,483-kilogram Trinity Bell, cast by András Schaudt in 1852, which chimes in memory of the great fire of 1819. The middle bell, known as the Blessed Virgin Mary Bell, weighs 618 kilograms and was crafted by Ferenc Walser in 1929.

The Co-Cathedral of the Ascension of the Lord is not just a place of worship; it is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture. Its walls echo the stories of centuries past, offering visitors a profound connection to the spiritual and historical legacy of Kecskemét. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to this magnificent cathedral promises to be an unforgettable experience.