In the heart of Cottbus, Brandenburg, stands the magnificent St. Maria Friedenskönigin, a Roman Catholic church that is both a spiritual haven and an architectural marvel. This church, whose name translates to St. Mary Queen of Peace, is a testament to the resilience and dedication of the local Catholic community. Nestled on Adolph-Kolping-Straße, it is a registered monument and a beacon of faith for the city.
The story of St. Maria Friedenskönigin begins in the aftermath of World War I, a period marked by significant growth in the Catholic population of Cottbus. The original church, Zum guten Hirten, built in 1850, could no longer accommodate the burgeoning congregation. To address this, a dedicated group established a fundraising association on April 1, 1928, with the goal of constructing a new church. By 1930, they had secured a plot on Taubenstraße 28 in the southern old town.
The foundation stone of the church and accompanying parish house was laid on September 18, 1932. The architectural design was the brainchild of Anton Mokroß, a diocesan architect from Breslau, and the construction was carried out by Hermann Pabel & Co. The interior boasted the craftsmanship of wood sculptor Felix Hertel. The church was consecrated on October 7, 1934, by Adolf Bertram, Bishop of the Archdiocese of Breslau.
During World War II, St. Maria Friedenskönigin suffered only minor damages, a stroke of luck that allowed it to continue serving its community uninterrupted. In 1963, the church's façade was adorned with a striking sculpture, the Risen Christ, created by Rudolf Brückner-Fuhlrott. This addition enhanced its architectural beauty, standing proudly between the twin towers.
From 1976 to 1982, the church underwent extensive renovations. These changes included a reimagining of the interior space and the conversion of the church tower into multi-level rooms for education and community gatherings. In 1994, the church was elevated to the status of a provost church, and two years later, it received a new set of bells. The late 1990s saw further restoration, with the exterior walls refurbished and the roof renewed.
St. Maria Friedenskönigin boasts a three-aisled rectangular layout with a north-facing apse and a double-tower façade. The entrance is marked by three portals beneath a canopy, leading into a space that was originally designed as a traditional nave with a prominently elevated altar area. In the 1970s, the interior was transformed into a central space for worship, with the altar now slightly elevated on a transverse axis. This arrangement allows the congregation to gather around it from three sides, creating an intimate and communal worship experience.
In 2015, the original altar area was redesigned into the Josefskapelle, a chapel approximately 50 square meters in size and 11 meters high. This space features a wall painting and an artistically designed window by Helge Warme, offering a serene setting for devotions and children's services.
The church's musical heritage is rich, with its first organ installed in 1937, a used instrument from Gustav Heinze. In 1976, it was replaced by an electronic Ahlborn organ, and in 2015, a mechanical organ by Jehmlich Orgelbau Dresden was installed. This organ, originally crafted for the Dresden Palace of Culture in 1970, boasts 1309 pipes across 24 registers, providing a majestic sound that fills the church.
The bell ensemble of St. Maria Friedenskönigin includes a medieval middle bell and two additional bells cast in 1996 by the Perner bell foundry in Passau. These bells resonate with the tones a′ – h′ – d″, marking the rhythm of life in the community.
Visitors to St. Maria Friedenskönigin are greeted by its imposing façade and the serene presence of the Risen Christ sculpture. Inside, the blend of traditional and modern elements creates a unique atmosphere that invites reflection and peace. The church not only serves as a place of worship but also as a cultural landmark, hosting events and activities that enrich the community.
In conclusion, St. Maria Friedenskönigin is more than just a church; it is a symbol of faith, resilience, and community spirit. Its history and architecture offer a glimpse into the past while providing a vibrant space for present and future generations. Whether you're exploring Cottbus or seeking a moment of tranquility, a visit to this remarkable church is a journey well worth taking.
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