St. Peter und Paul

The St. Peter und Paul Church, commonly known by its local name Herderkirche, is an architectural gem nestled in the heart of Weimar, Thuringia, Germany. This magnificent structure, with its rich history and cultural significance, stands as a testament to the city’s vibrant past and its enduring legacy. As you step into the cobblestone square where the church proudly stands, you are immediately captivated by its Gothic grandeur and historical aura.

The Historical Journey of St. Peter und Paul

The origins of St. Peter und Paul date back to the mid-13th century when the first church was constructed between 1245 and 1249. Unfortunately, a devastating fire in 1299 reduced the original structure to its foundations. The resilient spirit of Weimar’s citizens saw the church rebuilt, only for it to suffer significant damage again during the city fire of 1424. The current structure, a splendid three-nave hall church in the late Gothic style, was erected between 1498 and 1500, symbolizing the community’s tenacity and reverence.

The church is also known as Herderkirche, named after the renowned theologian and philosopher Johann Gottfried Herder. Herder served as the general superintendent of the church from 1776 until his death in 1803. His influence was so profound that the square in front of the church and the church itself were named in his honor. Herder’s legacy continues to be a cornerstone of the church’s identity, with his grave located in the churchyard, alongside that of Duchess Anna Amalia, who was laid to rest there in 1807.

The Resilience of St. Peter und Paul

World War II brought further trials for St. Peter und Paul. On February 9, 1945, a bombing raid inflicted severe damage on the church, destroying its 19-meter-high steep roof and wooden vaults. The interior was heavily damaged, with the stone vaults in the eastern parts collapsing. The post-war years saw a determined effort to restore the church to its former glory. Between 1948 and 1953, the church underwent extensive reconstruction, including the stabilization of the outer walls, the erection of a new roof, and the restoration of the west tower and other significant features. The church was re-consecrated on June 14, 1953, and further restoration of the interior continued until 1977.

In a poignant moment of reconciliation, the Herderkirche was admitted into the International Community of Cross of Nails in 2012, a network of churches that were destroyed during World War II and later rebuilt. This membership underscores the church’s commitment to peace and remembrance.

Architectural and Artistic Treasures

St. Peter und Paul is home to a wealth of artistic and architectural treasures. One of the most remarkable features is the three-winged altarpiece, crafted by Lucas Cranach the Younger between 1552 and 1555. This masterpiece, once thought to be the work of Lucas Cranach the Elder, is now recognized as a pinnacle of Saxon-Thuringian art from the 16th century. The altar, along with the Luther Shrine, a triptych featuring portraits of Martin Luther, adds to the church’s rich tapestry of historical and religious significance.

The church also serves as the final resting place for several members of the Ernestine line of the Wettin family. These princely graves, dating from the mid-16th to the early 17th century, include notable figures such as Elector Johann Friedrich I of Saxony and his wife Sibylla of Jülich-Cleves-Berg, as well as Duke Johann Wilhelm I of Saxony-Weimar and his wife Dorothea Susanne of the Palatinate.

The Magnificent Organ and Bells

The church’s organ, rebuilt by W. Sauer Orgelbau Frankfurt (Oder) between 1998 and 1999, is housed in the historical casing of an earlier organ created by Johann Gottlob Trampeli in 1812. This modern instrument, with 53 registers across three manuals and pedal, incorporates elements from previous organs, including some pipes from a 1908 Walcker organ. The organ’s powerful and melodious tones are a highlight of any visit, offering a sonic journey through centuries of musical heritage.

The bells of St. Peter und Paul have their own storied history. After the loss of the original bells during World War I, new iron-cast bells were installed in 1922, named Luther, Herder, and Bach. By the early 21st century, these bells had reached the end of their service life and were replaced by new bronze bells cast by the Rudolf Perner bell foundry in 2009. These new bells, also named Luther, Herder, and Bach, were inaugurated on Reformation Day 2009, their harmonious peals resonating with the legacy of their predecessors.

A Beacon of Cultural Heritage

In 1998, St. Peter und Paul, along with Herder’s residence and the old grammar school, was designated as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Classical Weimar. This recognition underscores the church’s role not only as a place of worship but also as a beacon of cultural and historical heritage. The comprehensive restoration between 2010 and 2016, which included the pulpit, baptismal font, and the Cranach altar, further cemented its status as a cultural landmark.

A visit to St. Peter und Paul is not just a journey through architectural splendor but also a walk through the annals of history. From its Gothic arches and historic altarpieces to its resonant bells and storied past, the church offers a profound experience that connects visitors with the rich tapestry of Weimar’s cultural and historical legacy. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or a spiritual seeker, St. Peter und Paul stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Weimar and its people.