Vicelinkirche

In the heart of Neumünster, Schleswig-Holstein, stands the majestic Vicelinkirche, a beacon of classical architecture and historical significance. This church, built between 1829 and 1834, is not just a place of worship but a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Named after the monk Vicelin, who founded an Augustinian monastery here in the 12th century, the Vicelinkirche has a story that intertwines with the very origins of Neumünster itself.

The Architectural Marvel

The Vicelinkirche is renowned as the most significant example of neoclassical church architecture in Schleswig-Holstein. Designed by the Copenhagen-based chief architect Christian Frederik Hansen, this church is a masterpiece of classical design. Hansen, noted for his work on the new Marienkirche in Husum, brought his expertise to Neumünster, creating a structure that stands out with its unique use of yellow bricks—a deliberate choice to distinguish it from the surrounding buildings traditionally made of red brick.

The church's structure is both imposing and elegant. The main body of the church is covered with a hipped roof, and a square western tower is integrated into the building's design. This tower, with its tiered upper floors and cylindrical lantern topped by a dome, adds to the church's distinctive silhouette. The high rectangular windows on the church's sides are complemented by broader semicircular windows above them, framed by shallow risalits that transition into round-arched panels, creating a harmonious blend of shapes and forms.

A Journey Through Time

The site of the Vicelinkirche has been a place of spiritual significance for centuries. The earliest known structure was likely a simple wooden church built by Bishop Ansgar in the 9th century. In 1127, the monk Vicelin established an Augustinian monastery here, which later led to the construction of a more substantial stone church in 1136, known as the Bartholomäuskirche. This church was central to the community and gave Neumünster—meaning new monastery—its name.

Throughout the centuries, the church and monastery faced numerous challenges, including destructive raids by the Wends. Despite these setbacks, the structures were repeatedly rebuilt and expanded. By the 16th century, the monastery had relocated to Bordesholm, but the Bartholomäuskirche continued to serve the local parish. However, by 1762, the church had become so dilapidated that its bell fell from its mount and crashed through the roof, leading to its eventual demolition in 1811.

The current Vicelinkirche, replacing the medieval structure, was constructed in the early 19th century. Hansen's neoclassical design was chosen to reflect the Protestant ethos of simplicity and grandeur. Unlike its predecessor, which was dedicated to the Apostle Bartholomew, the new church was named in honor of Vicelin, the monk who played a pivotal role in the area's Christianization.

Inside the Vicelinkirche

Stepping inside the Vicelinkirche, visitors are greeted by a beautifully organized interior. The church is designed with three naves, with the central nave featuring a coffered ceiling. Doric columns separate the main nave from the side aisles, supporting the surrounding entablature and extending over two floors, earning them the title of colossal columns. Above the entablature, a second gallery is visible through large round-arched openings, enhancing the sense of space and grandeur.

The altar wall mirrors the design of the nave's separation, with two colossal columns framing a simple altar table, an altarpiece, and a rounded pulpit. This arrangement, known as a pulpit altar, is a hallmark of Protestant church design, emphasizing the importance of preaching.

The Baptismal Font

One of the most intriguing features of the Vicelinkirche is its late neoclassical wooden baptismal font, painted in white and gold. Positioned almost in the center of the main nave, it consists of a fluted shaft supporting a shallow basin, all resting on a square base. The font is adorned with palmettes and winged angel heads, adding a touch of elegance. The silver baptismal bowl, gilded on the inside, is a relic from the Frauenkirche in Copenhagen, where it is believed that Danish royal children were baptized.

Art and Music

Above the entrance from the tower hall to the church interior, visitors can admire a relief depicting the biblical scene of Jesus blessing the children. This artwork, created around 1837, originates from the workshop of the renowned sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen and adds a touch of artistic heritage to the church.

The Vicelinkirche is also home to a magnificent organ. Originally built by the Danish organ building company Marcussen & Søn in 1856, the organ was replaced by a new instrument from Alfred Führer in 1968. This organ, with its 45 registers distributed across three manuals and a pedal, underwent significant renovations in 1997 to enhance its sound and functionality. The organ's design, with its free-standing pedal towers and multi-tiered structure, is a testament to the rich musical tradition of the church.

In conclusion, the Vicelinkirche is not just a place of worship but a symbol of Neumünster's enduring spirit and cultural heritage. Its architectural beauty, historical significance, and artistic treasures make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the rich history of Schleswig-Holstein. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, the Vicelinkirche offers a glimpse into a bygone era, standing as a proud testament to the region's storied past.