Kirche

In the quaint town of Kitzingen, nestled in the heart of Bavaria, Germany, stands a historical gem that has witnessed centuries of change and transformation. The Kirche, known locally as Ehemalige Kirche zum Heiligen Grab, is a former church that now serves as a part of a residential building. This remarkable structure, located at Grabkirchgasse 4a, offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich tapestry of Kitzingen's past.

The Origins of the Kirche

The story of the Kirche begins in the era of the Crusades. It is believed to have been constructed by the Knights Templar, a medieval Christian military order, to serve as a place of worship and a rest stop for pilgrims journeying to Jerusalem. The Templars were known to have established a small convent in Kitzingen, which functioned as a station for weary travelers. According to historical records, the chapel was completed before the year 1300.

After the dissolution of the Templar Order in 1307, the chapel came under the supervision of the local parish priest and became part of the Johannespfarrei. The chapel received generous donations and endowments from the citizens of Kitzingen, and it was officially mentioned in documents for the first time in 1380. The Würzburg Prince-Bishop Lorenz von Bibra played a significant role in its development, granting an indulgence in 1511 to support the church's construction.

The Changing Roles of the Kirche

The Kirche's role as a place of worship was abruptly interrupted in 1529 due to the Reformation. As the majority of Kitzingen's population embraced Lutheranism, the nearby Johanneskirche was transformed into a Protestant church, and the Kirche was secularized. Over the following years, the building served various practical purposes, including housing a meat market and later a storage space for grain and flour.

However, the Kirche's religious significance was revived in the early 17th century. In 1629, following the recapture of Kitzingen by the Catholic Würzburg Prince-Bishop Philipp Adolf von Ehrenberg, the chapel was re-consecrated. The interior was adorned with Renaissance and Baroque elements, and the Capuchins, a Catholic religious order, temporarily used the chapel until their own church was completed.

The Final Secularization

Despite its religious revival, the Kirche faced another secularization in 1804, following a decree by the new Bavarian government in Würzburg. The building was divided and sold to multiple buyers. The structure was split into two parts: the choir and part of the nave, along with the tower, comprised one section, while the remaining part of the nave formed the other. The church's furnishings were sold to Buchbrunn, where they continue to adorn two local churches.

Over the years, the building underwent significant modifications. By 1864, both sections had been converted into residential houses. Today, only the former section A, located at Grabkirchgasse 4a, is recognized as a historical monument. This part of the building retains its medieval core, although it has been extensively remodeled. The tower stump, which rises above the house, serves as a reminder of its ecclesiastical past.

Architectural Features

While the original choir is no longer intact, the Kirche's architectural heritage is still evident. The building's medieval structure has been preserved, albeit with modifications from the 16th century and later. The tower stump, with its uppermost floor dating from the 19th century, stands as a testament to the building's historical significance.

The Legacy of the Kirche

The Kirche's legacy extends beyond its physical structure. Many of its furnishings, including altars and a pulpit, were relocated to the churches in Buchbrunn. The main altar, adorned with angelic figures and a life-sized crucifix, now graces the Catholic Mariä-Himmelfahrtskirche. The side altars, dedicated to Jesuit saints Ignatius of Loyola and Francis Xavier, may also have originated from the Kirche, although their provenance is debated.

Despite the passage of time and the transformations it has undergone, the Kirche remains an integral part of Kitzingen's historical fabric. Its walls echo the stories of the Knights Templar, the Reformation, and the Catholic revival, offering a unique window into the town's rich and varied history.

For those visiting Kitzingen, the Kirche at Grabkirchgasse 4a is more than just a building; it is a symbol of the town's enduring spirit and a testament to its historical journey. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply a curious traveler, the Kirche invites you to explore its storied past and discover the layers of history that have shaped this charming Bavarian town.