Hohnekirche, Soest

In the charming town of Soest, located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, lies a hidden gem of immense historical and architectural significance: the Hohnekirche, also known by its original name, St. Maria zur Höhe. This remarkable church, with its unique blend of Romanesque and early Gothic elements, stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region. As you wander through the narrow, cobbled streets of Soest's old town, the sight of Hohnekirche's distinctive tower rising above the rooftops is sure to captivate your imagination and draw you in for a closer look.

The History of Hohnekirche

The origins of Hohnekirche date back to the 12th century when it was originally constructed as a small Romanesque basilica. The church was established around the time of the Soest parish division by the Archbishop of Cologne, Philipp I von Heinsberg, in 1180. The only remaining part of this early structure is the northern tower, which hints at the church's ancient roots. The original basilica featured galleries accessible from an adjacent building, suggesting its use as a manorial church.

In the second quarter of the 13th century, the original basilica was replaced by a hall church, representing an experimental early stage in the development of Westphalian hall churches. Built from the characteristic green sandstone quarried in Soest, Hohnekirche is wider than it is long, measuring approximately 22 by 16 meters. The eastern hall bay was initially intended to be a bound system hall with intermediate pillars, but the construction evolved into a pure hall church with domical vaults, known as domical vaults. This change allowed for the creation of the grand southern main portal, which remains one of the church's most striking features.

Architectural Marvels

Hohnekirche's architecture is a fascinating blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. The main portal's tympanum, dating from the church's early construction phase, is a masterpiece of Romanesque art. It depicts the Crucifixion with the sun and moon above, symbolizing the Old and New Testaments. To the left, the Nativity scene unfolds, complete with an angel, Mary, the Christ Child on a symbolic altar table, and Joseph wearing a Jewish hat. To the right of the Crucifixion, the three women at the empty tomb on Easter morning are depicted. The inscriptions and symbols convey the hopeful message of Christ's redemptive work.

The southern facade of the church is richly adorned with arcades, pilasters, and blind arches, an unusual and intricate decoration for the time in Westphalia. Inside, the church's medieval paintings have been carefully restored to reflect their original splendor. The interior is wider than it is long, creating a unique spatial experience that sets Hohnekirche apart from other churches of its kind. The windows, designed by Jochem Poensgen between 1993 and 1997, are executed in grisaille technique, harmonizing with the asymmetry of the building and the nearby wall paintings.

The Baptismal Chapel

Located beneath the tower, the Baptismal Chapel is one of the oldest parts of Hohnekirche, predating the current structure. During the second construction phase, a wall pillar had to be supported by three columns to keep the access open. The Romanesque baptismal font, created before 1220, is a remarkable piece of art, featuring half-reliefs of Mary, John the Baptist with a lamb, and six apostles. In 2008, brass lights and a colorful window by Jochem Poensgen were added to the chapel, enhancing its serene and sacred atmosphere.

The Soest Disc Cross

One of the most extraordinary artistic treasures within Hohnekirche is the Soest Disc Cross, a type of triumphal cross unique to the European mainland and the oldest of its kind in art history. Dating from around 1200, this cross is made of spruce and pine wood, with a height of 3.89 meters and a disc diameter of 2.72 meters. The cross was originally adorned with a figure of Christ, as evidenced by the nail marks. The disc cross symbolizes the cosmos and truth, with the cross representing the tree of life. The medallions on the disc depict scenes from the Passion of Christ, including the Entry into Jerusalem, Jesus teaching in the temple, the Garden of Gethsemane, and the Betrayal by Judas. The square reliefs on the cross beam illustrate the burial, resurrection, and ascension of Christ, as well as the descent into hell and the three women at the tomb.

The Main Choir and Apse Paintings

The rectangular main apse of Hohnekirche boasts original medieval paintings from 1230 to 1240, which are considered highly valuable in art history. These paintings were influenced by Byzantine mosaics, wall paintings, and textile patterns, likely introduced to Soest through the Crusades or a Byzantine painting school. The northern side aisle's apse features a painted curtain from 1250, replacing an actual curtain that once hung there. These paintings were hidden under layers of paint for centuries before being rediscovered and restored in 1869.

The altarpiece by the Master of Liesborn, dating from around 1480, is one of the finest examples of late Gothic painting in Westphalia. The central panel, the only remaining part, vividly depicts scenes and legends related to Good Friday and Holy Saturday.

The Organ

Hohnekirche's organ, housed in a historic baroque case, is a musical treasure. The main case dates from 1679, although the builder is unknown. The current organ was constructed in 1969 by organ builder Paul Ott. The instrument features 23 registers on two manuals and a pedal, with mechanical action. The organ's rich and resonant tones add to the church's spiritual ambiance.

Additional Features

Among Hohnekirche's notable features is the sacrament house, an intricate work of Baumberger sandstone from around 1450, adorned with Gothic decorative elements. The church's tower houses a small chime of two bronze bells, cast by the Rincker bell foundry in Sinn. The larger bell, cast in 1928, bears the inscription Hope does not disappoint, while the smaller bell, cast in 1960, invites worshippers with the inscription Come and let us honor Christ!

In conclusion, Hohnekirche, or St. Maria zur Höhe, is not just a church; it is a living museum of medieval art and architecture. Its walls and artifacts tell the story of centuries of faith, artistry, and devotion. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to Hohnekirche in Soest is sure to be a memorable and enriching experience.