Ottilienkirche

Perched on the southern ridge of the Tüllinger Berg in Weil am Rhein, Baden-Württemberg, the Ottilienkirche, also known as St. Ottilien, is an enchanting evangelical church with a rich historical tapestry. At an elevation of approximately 405 meters, this sacred site offers breathtaking panoramic views of the nearby Basel and the tri-border area where Germany, France, and Switzerland converge. The Ottilienkirche, first mentioned in records alongside the settlement of Tülliken in 1113, is steeped in legends and myths, making it a significant part of the Mythical Places on the Upper Rhine.

The Historical Evolution of Ottilienkirche

The earliest documented reference to the Ottilienkirche dates back to when Walcho von Waldeck donated his possessions in Ober- and Niedertüllingen to the St. Blasien Monastery. While there are no concrete records of the church's earlier usage, it is speculated that this location might have been a sacred site even during Celtic times. Despite the absence of archaeological excavations, the church's history is marked by numerous reconstructions and renovations, particularly in the 12th century.

A significant historical marker is a protective letter from Antipope Calixtus III, which confirms St. Blasien's ownership of the church, further underscoring its importance. This ownership was reaffirmed in 1189 by Bishop Hermann of Konstanz. By 1275, records show that despite the Tüllingen pastor being the dean of Wiesental, the parish's contributions remained below average, indicating the church's modest beginnings.

One of the oldest known depictions of the church is by the geodesist Georg Friedrich Meyer, who sketched Tüllingen along with Riehen in 1672. The church underwent significant expansion in the 17th century, as described in a 1739 account by Leutrum, noting the need for enlargement due to the growing congregation. This expansion involved extending the southern wall by three meters and aligning the windows on the northern wall with those on the new southern wall.

Architectural Marvels and Interior Delights

The Ottilienkirche is a quintessential example of a hall church, oriented east-northeast (60°) and comprising three main structures: the nave, a slightly offset chancel with a polygonal (5/8) layout, and a simple bell tower on the southern side. The tower and nave share a gabled roof, while the chancel is capped with a tent roof. The church's footprint measures approximately 17.6 meters in length and 10.7 meters in width, with the bell tower standing nearly 20 meters tall. The four-story tower is accentuated by cornices on the upper floors, with corner quoins made exclusively of Tüllinger limestone.

The chancel features three pointed arch windows with sandstone frames, and the window sills slope outward. The entrance door on the west side is asymmetrically placed and sheltered by a small pent roof. Despite modern developments encroaching on the northern side of the church, the Ottilienkirche retains its serene and historical charm.

Among the church's notable interior features are a late Gothic sacrament shrine, a burial niche, and a wall painting from 1474. These elements are considered some of the most valuable medieval art pieces in the Markgräflerland region. The burial niche once housed a wooden figure of Christ, now replaced by a painting depicting three women with ointment jars, identified as Mary Magdalene, Mary Salome, and Mary Cleophas at Christ's tomb. Above this is another fresco showing a group of agitated people against a backdrop reminiscent of the Isteiner Klotz. The sacrament shrine is adorned with a figure of the church's donor, the late 15th-century Tüllingen pastor Christopherus Bernardus, framed by a sandstone arch.

Memorials and Remembrances

The Ottilienkirche also serves as a poignant reminder of the past, with a plaque by Max Laeuger commemorating those who fell during World War I. Additionally, a memorial stone for World War II victims, created by Lörrach sculptor Buchhaas, stands to the left of the entrance portal on the exterior wall. The church's baptismal font and the Christ, Lamb of God relief were crafted by Rudolf Scheurer, while the chancel's stained glass windows are the work of Theodor Baumann.

The Bells and the Organ

The church's bell tower houses a bronze bell with the nominal a′, cast in 1697 by Basel bell founder Hans Heinrich Weitenauer. Another bell, acquired before 1917, was requisitioned during World War I and replaced in 1922/23 by the Bachert bell foundry from Karlsruhe. This replacement bell was also removed during World War II.

The church's current organ, built in 1981 by Vier from Friesenheim, features two manuals, a pedal, and nine registers. This instrument replaced an earlier organ acquired from the Evangelical Church in Kandern in 1827 and a positive organ created by Gebrüder Mann in Marktbreit in the mid-20th century.

Legends and Myths

The Ottilienkirche is enveloped in local legends, particularly the tale of the three sisters. According to the legend, the daughters of a knight from Pfeffingen Castle—Odilia, Chrischona, and Margaretha—each settled on different hills around Basel after their father murdered their lovers. Odilia chose the Tüllinger Höhe to establish a house of worship, while Chrischona and Margaretha settled on the Dinkelberg and the Margarethenhügel, respectively. This legend has contributed to the enduring Three Virgins cult in the region.

In conclusion, the Ottilienkirche is more than just a historical monument; it is a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the region. Its walls echo with stories of faith, resilience, and community, making it an unmissable destination for anyone exploring the picturesque landscapes of Baden-Württemberg.