St. Reinoldi

St. Reinoldi Church, also known as Reinoldikirche, stands as a testament to the rich historical and architectural heritage of Dortmund, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. This magnificent structure, dedicated to the city's patron saint Reinoldus, is the oldest preserved church in Dortmund's historic city center. It has served as a beacon of faith and a symbol of the city's resilience through the centuries.

The Historical Journey of St. Reinoldi

The origins of St. Reinoldi Church are shrouded in the mists of time, with local chronicles suggesting the existence of an earlier church at the crossroads of the Hellweg and the historic road from Cologne to Bremen. Though no archaeological evidence has been found to confirm this, it is well-documented that an Ottonian palatine chapel once stood on this site. This early church, with its transept and semicircular apse, was first destroyed around 1060 during wartime unrest and subsequently rebuilt to house the relics of Saint Reinoldus, brought to Dortmund around 1065.

The church faced further destruction in the early 12th century during conflicts between 1113 and 1115, leading to another reconstruction. A devastating city fire in 1231/1232 marked the third time the structure was razed, but it rose again between 1233 and 1235, with the transept from this period still standing today. The early Gothic nave was added by 1260, originally extending two bays further west. The Romanesque choir was replaced by the current late Gothic choir between 1421 and 1450, and a sacristy was also built during this period.

The towering spire of St. Reinoldi, which once reached an awe-inspiring height of 112 meters, was a marvel of medieval engineering, often referred to as the Miracle of Westphalia. However, it collapsed in 1661 after being weakened by an earthquake in 1640. The subsequent reconstruction saw the nave shortened by two bays, and the current tower was erected with a baroque dome, completed in 1701.

Exploring the Architectural Marvel

As you approach St. Reinoldi, the church's imposing presence dominates the Dortmund skyline. The blend of early Gothic, late Romanesque, and baroque architectural styles offers a visual narrative of the church's storied past. The west tower, with its distinctive baroque dome and Romanesque-inspired blind arcades, stands as a testament to the retrospective architectural trends of its time.

Step inside, and you'll find yourself immersed in a sanctuary of art and history. The church is home to numerous artistic treasures donated by the city's wealthy citizens and the council of the Hanseatic city of Dortmund. The wooden sculpture of Saint Reinoldus, dating back to the first half of the 14th century, greets you at the north side of the choir entrance. This life-sized figure, standing on a pedestal adorned with eagles and lions, once bore vibrant colors now lost to time but still exudes a sense of reverence and grandeur.

The Choir and Its Treasures

The choir of St. Reinoldi, built between 1421 and 1450, is a focal point of artistic and spiritual significance. The wooden figure of Charlemagne, symbolizing secular authority, stands opposite Saint Reinoldus. This mid-15th-century sculpture depicts the emperor holding the imperial orb and scepter, dressed in armor and a regal cloak.

The choir stalls, crafted by Hermann Brabender in 1462, provided seating for the city council members during services. The intricate carvings depict various religious figures, including Reinoldus, the Emperor, Mary, Jesus, and saints such as Pantaleon, Quirinus of Neuss, and Anthony the Hermit. The high altar's retable, created in 1420 by the Master of Hakendover, features scenes from the lives of Jesus and Mary, with the central panel focusing on the crucifixion of Christ.

The Resilient Spirit of St. Reinoldi

St. Reinoldi's resilience is further exemplified by its recovery from the devastation of World War II. The church was heavily damaged during the air raids on Dortmund, with only the side walls remaining intact. The reconstruction process, funded partly by donations and a lottery, began in 1950 and concluded in 1956. The interior now showcases an unadorned stone aesthetic, reflecting the post-war architectural ethos.

The tower, rebuilt to its familiar baroque silhouette, was designed to have a more commanding presence in the city's skyline. Visitors can climb to the first platform, approximately 60 meters high, for a panoramic view of Dortmund. The weather vane atop the tower, featuring the city's heraldic eagle, spins gracefully in the wind, a symbol of the city's enduring spirit.

Modern Additions and Continuing Legacy

In 2006, a modern, two-story glass annex was added to the southwest side of the tower. This design, based on an architectural competition, integrates seamlessly with the historic structure and houses the Reinoldiforum of the Evangelical City Church of Dortmund. This addition underscores the church's role as a living part of the community, bridging its rich past with the present.

St. Reinoldi continues to be a focal point of religious and cultural life in Dortmund. The church's maintenance is supported by the St. Reinoldi Foundation and the Save Reinoldi initiative, ensuring that this architectural gem remains preserved for future generations. With its blend of historical significance, architectural beauty, and vibrant community presence, St. Reinoldi Church is a must-visit for anyone exploring the heart of Dortmund.