Petruskirche (Neu-Ulm)

In the heart of Neu-Ulm, a city known for its rich cultural tapestry and historical landmarks, stands the remarkable Petruskirche. This neo-Gothic masterpiece, constructed in the 19th century, is not just a place of worship but a testament to the resilience and spirit of the local community. With its striking architecture and storied past, Petruskirche offers visitors a unique glimpse into the history and heritage of Neu-Ulm.

The History of Petruskirche

The origins of Petruskirche date back to the mid-19th century when the burgeoning Protestant community in Neu-Ulm decided to establish their own place of worship. After a series of fundraisers and the acquisition of a suitable plot, the foundation stone was laid on October 15, 1863. The design was the brainchild of the royal district architect Georg Freiherr von Stengel, who also designed the nearby Catholic parish church of St. Johann Baptist.

The church was inaugurated on August 25, 1867, by the then-government president Ernst Freiherr von Lerchenfeld. Initially, it was simply known as the Evangelical City Parish Church. It wasn't until 1963, when a second evangelical church was established in Neu-Ulm, that it was renamed Petruskirche, after the Apostle Peter.

Throughout its history, Petruskirche has undergone numerous renovations and modifications. In the late 19th century, the church saw the installation of pews on the gallery and the addition of its first organ, crafted by Sigmund Braungart. The church also received heating and electric lighting, modernizing the space for its congregation.

Surviving the Wars

The 20th century brought significant challenges to Petruskirche. During World War I, the church had to surrender its largest bronze bells to be melted down for the war effort. In the 1920s, extensive renovations were carried out under the guidance of Ulm architect Albert Unseld, which included masonry repairs, new flooring, and a fresh color scheme for the interior. However, once again, in World War II, the bells were requisitioned, and the church suffered damage from bombings, which shattered windows and left smoke stains inside.

Post-war efforts saw the church quickly repaired, with windows replaced and structural damage addressed. The 1950s brought more substantial restoration, overseen by architect Ott from Günzburg, which included a redesign of the interior by Karlheinz Hoffmann. This period marked a shift towards a simpler, more modern aesthetic, yet retaining the historical essence of the church.

Modern Transformations

The latter half of the 20th century and the early 21st century saw further transformations. In the 1960s, significant alterations were made, including the reconfiguration of the basement to serve community needs. The original entrance and side stair towers were demolished, making way for a more open and inviting space. The seating arrangement was changed to a semicircular formation around a new altar island, fostering a sense of community and inclusiveness.

In 1972, two new entrances were created, each adorned with bronze-clad wooden doors designed by Ulm artist Günther Späth. These doors, known as the Evangeliumstür and Aposteltür, feature intricate bronze reliefs depicting the life and teachings of the Apostle Peter. The Evangeliumstür illustrates scenes from Peter's life, including his denial of Jesus and his eventual recognition of Jesus as the Messiah. The Aposteltür portrays the gathering of Jesus' disciples and the vision of Peter, symbolizing the breaking down of societal barriers.

Architectural Marvel

Petruskirche is an architectural gem, constructed in a neo-Gothic style using exposed brick. The church's cruciform layout, with its main nave and transept, is a classic example of Gothic architecture. The roof is covered with slate tiles, adding to the building's historic charm. The integrated bell tower, with its square base and octagonal spire, reaches an estimated height of 70 meters, topped with a copper-covered pointed roof. The tower houses a three-bell chime and a clock with gold-plated hands, which was upgraded to a radio-controlled mechanism in 1990.

The church's façade features a blend of historical and modern elements. The 1970s addition to the southern side of the church, which replaced the original entrance, was clad in brick to match the existing structure during the 2015 renovation. This careful attention to detail ensures that the new elements harmonize with the historic character of the church.

Inside the Petruskirche

Stepping inside Petruskirche, visitors are greeted by a beautifully rounded main hall, characterized by rib-vaulted ceilings and a serene ambiance. The altar island, positioned on a two-tiered podium, is the focal point of the space. The wooden altar table and ambo are complemented by a suspended wooden disc cross, creating a simple yet profound setting for worship.

One side of the altar island features the historic carved pulpit, known as the Petruskanzel, while the other side houses a wooden baptismal font. This arrangement emphasizes the centrality of the congregation in the worship experience, reflecting the church's commitment to community and inclusiveness.

A Living Landmark

Today, Petruskirche stands not only as a place of worship but also as a living landmark, embodying the history, resilience, and spirit of Neu-Ulm. Its walls tell the story of a community that has weathered the storms of history and emerged stronger, united by faith and a shared heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a spiritual seeker, Petruskirche offers a rich and rewarding experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.