St.-Stephani-Kirche

St.-Stephani-Kirche, the emblematic landmark of Calbe in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, stands proudly with its twin towers soaring to a height of 57 meters. This magnificent edifice, known locally as St. Stephani, is not only a testament to architectural brilliance but also a keeper of centuries of history and cultural evolution.

The Early Foundations

The roots of St.-Stephani-Kirche trace back to the 10th century, when an early church was likely established as a representative building for the newly formed Archbishopric of Magdeburg. Although the theory that it was founded by Archbishop Hildegrim around 820 has been largely debunked, remnants of an Ottonian or Romanesque basilica have been discovered beneath the current structure. These ancient ruins, scarred by fire—possibly during the Welf-Staufer wars—whisper tales of resilience and rebirth.

The church played a pivotal role in the medieval period as the central church of an archdeaconry comprising 40 churches. Its significance grew when Archbishop Konrad II gifted it to the nearby Stiftskloster “Gottes Gnade” in 1268, embedding it deeply in the ecclesiastical and worldly affairs of the region.

The Gothic Transformation

By the 15th century, responding to the growing population, the decision was made to construct the grand late Gothic hall church we see today. Completed in 1495, the church features a nave and towers built from rubble stone, with sandstone corners and portals. The oldest part of the current building is the choir, to which the main nave was later added, creating a striking yet harmonious architectural ensemble.

Architectural Marvels and Symbolism

St.-Stephani-Kirche is adorned with intricate Gothic tracery windows, a testament to the craftsmanship of the era. Notably, the main portal, with its pointed arches, was added to the already existing tower structure, showcasing the blend of architectural styles over the centuries. The south tower once housed the tower keeper, responsible for fire watch duties, and remnants of his hoist beam can still be seen today.

A unique feature of the church is its collection of 14 chimeras perched on the buttresses. These grotesque figures, intended to ward off evil, include caricatures of contemporaries, symbolizing human vices and the moral teachings of the time. Among them is a controversial depiction known as the “Judensau,” reflecting the antisemitic sentiments prevalent in that era.

The Protestant Transition

The winds of the Reformation swept through Calbe in the 16th century, with the first Protestant service held in St.-Stephani-Kirche in 1542. The church transitioned to Protestantism under the aegis of the Evangelical Domstift Magdeburg, which entrusted it to the city council. The church’s pastors became superintendents and inspectors for the area, further cementing its role in the community.

Interior Treasures

Inside St.-Stephani-Kirche, visitors can marvel at an array of historical artifacts. A wooden crucifix from the 15th or 16th century, a sandstone pulpit from 1561, and a baptismal font from the same year are among the preserved treasures. The church also boasts a remarkable altarpiece from 1464, which survived the iconoclastic fervor of the Protestant Reformation.

Stone epitaphs commemorate the city’s patricians, nobles, and clergy, while a painted wooden epitaph of the Lemmer family from 1654 adds to the church's rich narrative tapestry. The neo-Gothic choir stalls and 19th-century paintings depicting Martin Luther and Superintendent Friedrich August Scheele highlight the church’s continued cultural significance.

The Organ and Restoration Efforts

The church is home to a historic organ crafted by Ernst Röver, which is currently undergoing restoration to return it to its original romantic glory. This instrument, with its 44 registers, stands as a symbol of the church's enduring dedication to musical excellence.

St.-Stephani-Kirche has seen numerous restoration projects, supported by generous donations from the community and beyond. These efforts ensure the preservation of this architectural jewel for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.

The Wrangel Chapel

On the southern side of the church lies the Wrangel Chapel, named after the Swedish Field Marshal Carl Gustav Wrangel. This chapel, with its brick construction—a rarity in northern Germany—features a sundial and the coat of arms of Archbishop Ernst II of Saxony. The chapel’s unique history and connection to the Wrangel family add another layer of intrigue to the church’s storied past.

In conclusion, St.-Stephani-Kirche is not just a place of worship but a living chronicle of Calbe’s history and heritage. Its towering presence and rich tapestry of stories make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the cultural landscape of Saxony-Anhalt.