Weggental

Weggental, also known locally as Weggentalkirche, is a baroque pilgrimage church nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Rottenburg am Neckar, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. This sacred site, dedicated to the Sorrowful Mother of God, offers a serene and spiritual retreat for visitors and pilgrims alike, drawing them into its rich history and stunning baroque architecture.

A Journey Through History

The origins of Weggental date back to around 1450, when a small Pietà shrine was erected by the roadside between Rottenburg am Neckar and Remmingsheim. This modest beginning marked the start of what would become a significant pilgrimage destination. By 1521, a small chapel had been built, fostering a growing tradition of pilgrimage that was initially overseen by the canons of St. Moriz.

In 1658, the Jesuits took over the administration of the pilgrimage site, although the ownership of the church remained with the parish church of St. Martin. Despite its growing importance, Weggental never had its own income or property, relying solely on the support of its patrons and the broader church community.

The construction of the current church began in 1682, following the Vorarlberg Minster scheme, with Michael Thumb presumed to be the master builder. Completed in 1695, the church was consecrated on October 29 of the same year. The interior decoration followed in the early 18th century, with intricate stucco work by Johann Georg Brix adorning the choir, the high altar, and the apse dome.

Architectural Marvels

Weggental's baroque architecture is a feast for the eyes. The high altar, crafted in Vienna in 1730, is a golden masterpiece gifted by the Habsburg imperial family. It features a depiction of the Deposition from the Cross, flanked by busts of Joachim and Anna, the parents of Mary, all dating back to around 1700.

The side altars, made of wood between 1701 and 1732, are now finished in black and gold, a color scheme introduced during renovations in the 1960s. Originally, these altars were likely painted to imitate marble. The left altar panel depicts Mary with the Fourteen Holy Helpers, while the right panel shows Peter's liberation from prison alongside Mary Magdalene.

In the side altar niches, visitors can find baroque paintings from 1657 that illustrate the Seven Joys of Mary on the right and the Seven Sorrows on the left. A Renaissance sculpture of the Swoon of Mary, supported by attendants, and another sculpture depicting the Seven Sorrows of Mary, represented by seven swords piercing her heart, add to the church's artistic and spiritual ambiance.

A Place of Pilgrimage

Weggental is renowned for its annual nativity scene, celebrated in verse by the poet Sebastian Blau. This nativity scene, crafted by Leopold Lazaro around 1835/1840, is displayed from December 23rd until Candlemas in four different settings, captivating visitors with its intricate details and historical significance.

Throughout its history, Weggental has been a center of spiritual care and pilgrimage. Since 1919, the church and its pilgrimage have been overseen by the Franciscans of the Thuringian Franciscan Province. The Franciscans resided in the sacristan's house in front of the church, a two-story Rococo building with a mansard roof, which was expanded with a new convent building in 1973. A chapel was also established on the ground floor of the sacristan's house.

In 2010, following the merger of the German Franciscan Provinces, the Weggental convent became part of the German Franciscan Province. However, in the autumn of 2016, the Franciscans left the convent, and the pilgrimage was briefly managed by Indian Carmelites until March 2019. Since then, priests from Tanzania and Nigeria have taken over the pastoral care of the church.

The Modern Era

In January 2021, the Diocese of Rottenburg-Stuttgart decided to appoint a pilgrimage rector and an additional pastoral worker to oversee the pilgrimage at Weggental. The site is being developed into a center for family pastoral care. On June 1, 2021, Johannes Holdt, who had served as the city pastor of Schömberg since 1997, took on the role of pilgrimage rector.

Conclusion

Weggental is more than just a church; it is a testament to centuries of faith, artistry, and community. Its baroque splendor, rich history, and ongoing spiritual significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the region. Whether you are a pilgrim seeking solace or a tourist fascinated by history and architecture, Weggental offers a unique and enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.