Church of St. Andrew

Nestled in the heart of Düsseldorf's Altstadt (Old Town), the Church of St. Andrew, locally known as St. Andreas, stands as a magnificent testament to Baroque architecture and a rich historical legacy. This former Jesuit and court church, now under the care of the Dominican Order since 1972, is a must-visit for anyone intrigued by history, art, and spirituality.

The History of the Church of St. Andrew

The story of the Church of St. Andrew begins in the early 17th century, during a time of significant religious and political upheaval in Europe. In 1613, Wolfgang Wilhelm, the heir to the Duchy of Jülich-Berg, converted to Catholicism, a decision that influenced the region's religious landscape profoundly. Following his accession in 1614, Wolfgang Wilhelm invited the Jesuits to the duchy in 1619, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Düsseldorf.

In 1620, Wolfgang Wilhelm acquired a large plot of land on Hunsrückenstraße for the Jesuits, who quickly set about establishing their presence. The foundation stone for the Church of St. Andrew was laid on July 5, 1622, by the Cologne Auxiliary Bishop Otto Gereon. The church was designed in the Baroque style, following the architectural principles of the Counter-Reformation, and modeled after the Jesuit mother church, Il Gesù, in Rome. By 1629, the main construction phase was complete, and the first service was held on November 29 of that year.

The church's interior, however, was not completed until much later. In 1632, Johannes Kuhn was commissioned to create elaborate stucco work, which he significantly altered following the Duke's dissatisfaction with the initial design. The church's construction continued piecemeal, with the towers being erected in 1637 and further enhancements made until 1661.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, the Church of St. Andrew served as a cultural and religious hub. It was a center for music, evidenced by the employment of Johann Hugo von Wilderer as the court organist. The church also saw the addition of a grand high altar, designed by Johann Joseph Couven and completed in the early 1740s.

The church endured significant damage during the Seven Years' War and the subsequent French occupation, being used as a hospital in 1761. Extensive restorations followed, including the removal of war-damaged obelisks in 1765 and further repairs in the late 18th century. The Jesuit order's dissolution in 1773 saw the church transition to a parish church, and it became the second parish church of Düsseldorf's Altstadt in 1842.

The Church of St. Andrew suffered heavy damage during World War II, with its roofs, tower domes, high altar, and sacristy being destroyed. Reconstruction efforts spanned from 1960 to 1971, culminating in the church's rededication and the installation of a new high altar designed by Ewald Mataré.

The Mausoleum

The church is also home to a mausoleum, which serves as the final resting place for members of the Wittelsbach family. Duke Wolfgang Wilhelm's testament specified his burial in the church, and his wife, Anna Katharina Konstanze Wasa, was the first to be interred there in 1651. The mausoleum, constructed between 1716 and 1717 by Simon Sarto, houses the elaborate sarcophagi of several family members, including the renowned Elector Jan Wellem.

The mausoleum underwent various renovations over the centuries, with significant work done in 1875 and 1935. Post-World War II, Ewald Mataré restored the mausoleum in 1958, adding new stone flooring, windows, and commemorative inscriptions.

Architectural Marvels

The Church of St. Andrew's façade is a striking example of Baroque architecture, featuring a two-story design with Tuscan pilasters dividing it into three sections. The central axis is particularly ornate, with a prominent oculus above the main portal and a large high window in the gable, all crowned by a triangular pediment.

Inside, the church's layout is equally impressive. The nave consists of five rectangular bays, leading to a two-bay chancel with a three-fifths apse. The towers are positioned at the junction of the nave and chancel, with the mausoleum extending from the chancel's rear. The interior is characterized by fluted pilasters, projecting cornices, and arcaded galleries, creating a sense of grandeur and openness. The ceiling features barrel vaults with transverse ribs, adding to the architectural splendor.

Artistic Treasures

The Church of St. Andrew is adorned with magnificent stucco work, much of it crafted by Johannes Kuhn. The intricate designs and embellishments reflect the Baroque era's artistic sensibilities, creating a visually stunning environment for worship and contemplation.

One of the church's highlights is the high altar, a masterpiece of Baroque art designed by Johann Joseph Couven. The altar's intricate woodwork and figures, along with the paintings by Anton Wisselinck, create a focal point that draws visitors' attention and admiration.

A Living Legacy

Today, the Church of St. Andrew continues to serve as a place of worship and a historical landmark. The Dominican Order's stewardship ensures that the church remains a vibrant part of the community, hosting religious services, cultural events, and providing a space for reflection and spiritual growth.

Visitors to Düsseldorf's Altstadt should not miss the opportunity to explore the Church of St. Andrew. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and artistic treasures offer a glimpse into the past while providing a serene and inspiring environment. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, the Church of St. Andrew is a destination that promises to leave a lasting impression.