Altstädter Nicolaikirche

In the heart of Bielefeld, the Altstädter Nicolaikirche stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural evolution. This church, the oldest in Bielefeld's original city area, is a beacon of the region's religious and cultural heritage. Named after Saint Nicholas of Myra, the patron saint of merchants, the church reflects Bielefeld's historical role as a bustling trade center.

The History of Altstädter Nicolaikirche

The roots of the Altstädter Nicolaikirche stretch back to 1236 when the parish was established by the Bishop of Paderborn. Initially, a modest chapel served the community, but by the 14th century, the impressive three-aisled hall church we see today began to take shape. The choice of Saint Nicholas as the church's patron saint, first mentioned in 1317, highlights the city's mercantile significance during the Middle Ages.

The church's journey through history is marked by significant events and transformations. The Reformation brought about a shift in religious practices, and by 1632, the church became a permanent fixture of the predominantly Protestant city. Notably, the church's tower spire, destroyed by a storm in 1706, was replaced in 1739 with a baroque-style dome topped with a lantern, adding a unique architectural flair.

Architectural Marvels and Renovations

Though originally a Gothic structure, the Altstädter Nicolaikirche underwent substantial changes during its reconstruction in the 1950s following severe damage in World War II. The original polygonal Gothic choir was replaced with a rectangular one, featuring smaller windows and a striking rosette. The church's vaulted ceiling, constructed from pumice stone, lacks the ribbing typical of Gothic architecture, giving it a distinctive modern touch.

The church's imposing tower, standing at 81.5 meters, is a focal point of Bielefeld's skyline. Its massive stonework, punctuated by slender pointed arch windows, culminates in a modern steel and concrete bell chamber. This contemporary design choice, completed in the early 1960s, contrasts with the historical foundations, creating a fascinating blend of old and new.

The Treasures Within

Inside, the Altstädter Nicolaikirche houses treasures that speak volumes of its artistic and cultural heritage. The Antwerp retable, a masterpiece of woodcarving from 1524, dominates the altar space. This intricate altarpiece, adorned with 250 wood carvings, is a testament to the craftsmanship of the period.

The church also boasts a baptismal font from the post-war era, alongside its oldest artifact, a baptismal chalice dating back to the 14th century. The southern choir wall is graced by a rose window, designed in 1954 by Karl Muggly, which adds a splash of color and light to the sacred space.

The Sound of Bells and Music

The auditory experience of the Altstädter Nicolaikirche is as captivating as its visual grandeur. The church's six bronze bells, cast in the early 1960s, form one of the largest post-war bell ensembles for a Protestant church in Westphalia. These bells ring out across the city, marking the hours and calling the faithful to worship.

Music lovers will appreciate the church's three organs, crafted by Rudolf von Beckerath Orgelbau. The main organ, installed above the main entrance in 1965, features 48 registers and underwent a comprehensive overhaul in 2020. Additionally, a smaller choir organ, installed in 1954, adds to the church's rich musical offerings.

A Modern Portal to History

The entrance to the Altstädter Nicolaikirche is marked by a striking bronze relief created by Gerhard Marcks in 1963. This impressive portal, adorned with biblical motifs, invites visitors into a space where history and modernity coexist harmoniously.

Inside, a memorial plaque honors those from the parish who perished in World War I, while a memorial book commemorates the fallen of World War II. These tributes serve as poignant reminders of the church's enduring role as a place of remembrance and reflection.

Visiting the Altstädter Nicolaikirche

A visit to the Altstädter Nicolaikirche offers more than just a glimpse into Bielefeld's past; it provides an immersive experience of history, art, and spirituality. As you explore this remarkable church, you'll encounter the echoes of centuries-old stories and the vibrant pulse of contemporary faith.

Whether you're drawn by its architectural beauty, its historical significance, or its serene atmosphere, the Altstädter Nicolaikirche is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Bielefeld. Its walls, steeped in history, continue to inspire and captivate all who pass through its doors.