Versöhnungskirche

The Versöhnungskirche in Völklingen, Saarland, Germany, stands as a testament to resilience, community spirit, and architectural splendor. This church, a cornerstone of the Evangelical Church Community Völklingen-Versöhnung, has a rich history that intertwines with the cultural and social fabric of the town. Initially known as the Erlöserkirche, the church was renamed in 1968 to Versöhnungskirche, reflecting its role as a beacon of reconciliation within the community.

The History of Versöhnungskirche

The roots of Versöhnungskirche can be traced back to a tragic event on February 12, 1922, when the original Protestant church of Völklingen, the Martinskirche, was destroyed by fire. The Martinskirche, a baroque hall church built between 1737 and 1738, had served both Protestant and Catholic Christians until 1848. After the Catholics established their own church, the Martinskirche continued to serve the Protestant community until its untimely destruction.

Following the fire, the decision was made to construct a new church in the town center. This ambitious project was largely funded by Hermann Röchling, who provided a loan of 250,000 Reichsmarks. Additional funds came from the League of Nations' International Government Commission and contributions from the local community through a church-building bazaar. The architectural vision for the new church was to echo the Rhenish-Franconian Baroque style, a nod to the neobaroque revival in Southern Germany during the 1920s.

Architecture of Versöhnungskirche

The design of Versöhnungskirche was the brainchild of Heidelberg architect Franz Sales Kuhn, whose plans were chosen from 164 submissions in a design competition. Kuhn's design drew inspiration from the architectural traditions of the Ludwigskirche in Saarbrücken and other Stengel buildings in Saarbrücken, creating a central architectural landmark for the Völklingen community.

The church is a neobaroque cross-hall structure, characterized by its broad, central layout. The exterior features a rectangular cross shape, with a high square tower and a rectangular choir attached to the long sides. Inside, the space is organized as an oval with surrounding pillars and a continuous gallery. The interior is crowned by a coffered flat dome, with a large oval mirror field at its center, adorned with a ceiling painting.

The church's exterior is two-story, with plastered and white-painted walls. The base zone, structural elements, and the door and window reveals are crafted from light ocher-colored Ettringer tuff stone, left exposed. The upper story, heavily fenestrated with high round-arched windows, is visually connected to the lower story by flat, wide pilasters. The central choir, designed as a risalit, houses the marriage and baptismal chapel as well as the sacristy, and is adorned with broad, flat pilasters and a broken triangular pediment. Iron figures by Victor Funk occupy the niches in the outer wall fields, while a balcony with a balustrade graces the middle section.

Exploring the Versöhnungskirche

As you approach the church, the imposing tower facade immediately captures your attention. This high tower, which also serves as the entrance hall, features a double-flight staircase with a balustrade. The lower two floors of the tower are accented with pilaster-flanked corner pillars, while the belfry is recessed above a balustrade. The tower's striking design is capped with a copper onion dome, adding a distinctive touch to the skyline of Völklingen.

Inside, the church's elliptical fresco ceiling painting, titled The Victory Power of the Cross and the Gospel, is a focal point. Created between 1935 and 1937 by Munich painter Waldemar Kolmsperger the Younger, the fresco depicts the Last Judgment with Christ at the center, surrounded by the industrial landscape of Völklingen, including smoking factory chimneys. The painting also features deceased members of the Röchling family, an eagle breaking free from its chains symbolizing the Saarland's reintegration into the German Reich in 1935, and the group responsible for the church's construction, including the architects and church leaders.

The Symbolism and Legacy

The fresco is rich in symbolism, with the uppermost angel representing Ilse Rupp, whose father was the church's treasurer and a key figure in the planning process. The Röchling family is also prominently featured, with Karl Röchling holding a paper roll, symbolizing his role in the church's creation. The painting serves as a visual narrative of the church's history and the community's resilience and faith.

Over the years, the Versöhnungskirche has undergone several restorations, including major works in 1953, 1961, 1973, 1984–1985, and 1997. In 2003, an exterior lighting system was installed as part of the Masterplan Light, enhancing the church's presence in the townscape. The most recent restoration, led by architect Hans-Jürgen Stein, took place between 2006 and 2008, ensuring that this architectural gem continues to shine.

Visit Versöhnungskirche

Today, the Versöhnungskirche stands as a symbol of Völklingen's rich history and cultural heritage. Its architectural beauty, combined with its historical significance, makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Saarland region. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply looking for a place of reflection and inspiration, the Versöhnungskirche offers a unique and enriching experience.

In conclusion, the Versöhnungskirche is more than just a church; it is a monument to the enduring spirit of the Völklingen community. Its walls tell stories of resilience, faith, and unity, making it a cherished landmark in the heart of Saarland. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this remarkable piece of history and experience the profound sense of peace and reconciliation it embodies.