Klosterkirche

Nestled in the heart of Cottbus, Brandenburg, the Klosterkirche stands as a testament to the town's rich historical tapestry and architectural elegance. This former Franciscan monastery church, later known as the Wendish Church (Serbska cerkwja in Lower Sorbian), is the oldest surviving sacred building in Cottbus. Erected in its present form in the 15th century, this Gothic-style edifice invites visitors to step back in time and explore its storied past and serene beauty.

The History of Klosterkirche

The origins of the Klosterkirche trace back to around 1300 when the Franciscan monastery was founded. Strategically located between Kloster- and Münzstraße in the northwest of the old town, the church's south side, with its main entrances and tower, faces the city, while the former convent buildings were situated to the north, adjacent to the city wall. These convent buildings included an east and a west wing, connected by a cloister, with the east wing adjoining the church's choir.

Over the centuries, the Klosterkirche has undergone numerous transformations. The oldest part of the church is the eastern section of the main nave, likely dating back to the early 14th century. The main nave was extended later in the 14th century, and the tower was possibly constructed during this period as well. The side aisle was added in the 15th century, showcasing the use of brick in the distinctive Läufer-Binder-Läufer-Binder bond.

The Reformation brought significant changes to the Klosterkirche. With the departure of the Franciscans, the church became known as the Wendish Church and served as the parish church for the Wendish (Sorb) population, with services conducted in their language. The church's parish included several surrounding villages, and until the early 20th century, sermons and hymns were delivered in Lower Sorbian.

Architectural Highlights

The Klosterkirche is a 55.22-meter-long rectangular brick building, characterized by its simplicity and elegance, typical of mendicant order churches. The main nave, with its continuous gable roof, is complemented by a narrow asymmetrical side aisle on the south side, also with a gable roof. A slender tower rises from the southeast corner, adding to the church's verticality and presence. The sacristy, located on the eastern north side, was shortened in 1832 but remains an integral part of the church's structure.

The church's interior has seen various modifications over the centuries. The roof structures, dating from the restoration after the 1671 city fire, are still intact. In 1804, the church underwent significant changes, including the removal of the north side of the tower's base to improve lighting for the southern east window. The sacristy was also shortened during this period. The church was extensively renovated in 1907/08, with new galleries, seating, a steam heating system, and electric lighting added. The altar and pulpit were repainted, and the pulpit was moved to the north side of the main nave. The exterior masonry was also refurbished during this renovation.

Exploring the Interior

Inside the Klosterkirche, visitors are greeted by a range of historical and artistic treasures. The wooden altar, installed in 1750, is a high aedicula structure with Corinthian columns and features paintings from 1908 depicting the Last Supper, the Crucifixion, and the Ascension of Christ. The altar's intricate design and the use of volutes to frame the paintings add to its grandeur.

A notable highlight is the wooden crucifix from 1320, a masterpiece of late Gothic art. This life-sized sculpture, standing approximately 2.5 meters tall, is remarkable for its restrained expression despite the detailed portrayal of Christ's suffering. A small golden reliquary cross adorns Christ's chest, adding a touch of reverence and significance.

The late Gothic baptismal font, created around 1500, features a richly decorated canopy and a twisted column base. The font's intricate stonework, with cross flowers and corner pinnacles, showcases the craftsmanship of the period. The addition of coats of arms and a vaulted cell structure inside the basin around 1908 further enhances its historical value.

The Organ and Other Features

The Klosterkirche is home to a unique Sauer organ, built in 1908 as Opus 1019 by Wilhelm Sauer from Frankfurt (Oder). This pneumatic cone chest instrument, with 24 registers distributed across two manuals and a pedal, is the only surviving Sauer organ in Cottbus. The organ was restored in 2000, ensuring its continued use and preservation.

Other notable features include a bronze bell from 1927, cast by the Schilling foundry in Apolda, and various painted decorations on the west gallery railing, featuring floral motifs, beatitudes, and Bible verses in Sorbian. These decorations, along with the German-language inscriptions on the south gallery railing, reflect the church's bilingual heritage.

The Klosterkirche also boasts several historic grave monuments, including the tombstone of Fredehelm von Cottbus (d. 1307) and his wife Adelheid von Colditz (d. 1319). This sandstone slab, with its high relief and framing inscription, is a poignant reminder of the church's long-standing connection to the local community.

In conclusion, the Klosterkirche in Cottbus is not just a place of worship but a living museum of history and art. Its Gothic architecture, historical significance, and rich interior decorations make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the cultural heritage of Brandenburg. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Klosterkirche offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and a serene space for reflection and admiration.