In the charming city of Emden, nestled in the heart of East Frisia, stands the magnificent Martin-Luther-Kirche. This striking edifice is not just a place of worship but a testament to resilience and architectural beauty. As the largest post-war church of the Evangelical-Lutheran Church of Hanover, it holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
The story of Martin-Luther-Kirche is one of endurance and rebirth. After the original church, built in 1775, was destroyed during a bombing raid in World War II, the community was determined to rebuild. In the aftermath of the war, the faithful gathered in a makeshift wooden church, a former Wehrmacht barrack, until plans for a new church could be realized.
Construction of the new Martin-Luther-Kirche began in 1956, with the foundational stone laid on July 1st. Designed by the renowned architect Ernst Witt, the church was completed and consecrated on December 14, 1958, by Bishop Johannes Lilje. The new building, a three-aisled basilica, rose on the historic site in Bollwerkstraße, symbolizing hope and renewal.
The Martin-Luther-Kirche is an architectural gem, boasting a blend of traditional and modern design elements. With a capacity of 1,200 seats, it is the largest church built by the Evangelical-Lutheran Church of Hanover after the war. Its towering 50-meter spire is a prominent feature of Emden’s skyline, beckoning visitors from afar.
The church’s exterior is characterized by a red-brick facade and a steeply pitched roof, typical of North German architecture. The main entrance is located on the western gable wall, leading into a spacious nave flooded with natural light from the high, narrow, and leaded windows. These windows, with their horizontal sills, create an atmosphere of serenity and reflection within the church.
Scavenger hunts in Emden
Discover Emden with the digital Scavenger Hunt from myCityHunt! Solve puzzles, master team tasks and explore Emden with your team!
The Martin-Luther-Kirche is renowned for its musical heritage, particularly its organ. The current organ, built by Rudolf von Beckerath in 1995, is the largest in Emden and the third largest in East Frisia. With 44 registers spread across three manuals and a pedal, the organ is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, designed to accommodate a wide range of musical styles, especially romantic-symphonic compositions.
The organ’s mechanical action and electric stop action allow for intricate performances, making it a vital part of the church’s musical offerings. Whether you’re attending a service or a concert, the organ’s majestic tones are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Art plays a significant role in the Martin-Luther-Kirche, enhancing its spiritual and aesthetic appeal. Above the southern entrance, a sandstone relief by sculptor Kurt Lettow, titled “Group of Listeners,” invites contemplation. Inside, the altar, crafted from Anröchter dolomite, is elegantly simple, complemented by a pulpit and baptismal font made of sandstone.
One of the church’s most captivating features is the “Phoenix Window” in the western gable. This round stained-glass window depicts the fiery destruction of Emden, transforming into a rising phoenix—a powerful symbol of the city’s resurrection and the promise of new beginnings.
The church’s bell tower houses a five-bell chime, cast in 1958 by the Gebrüder Rincker foundry. The bells, with their harmonious tones of cis’, e’, fis’, gis’, and a’, have been a beloved feature of the church since its inception. However, due to structural concerns, the largest bell has been silent since 2017, awaiting restoration.
Beyond its architectural and artistic significance, the Martin-Luther-Kirche serves as a vibrant community hub. As the preaching church of the regional bishop of the Evangelical-Lutheran Sprengel Ostfriesland-Ems, it plays a central role in the spiritual life of the region. Since 2007, Emden has been the seat of the Lutheran superintendent, further cementing the church’s importance in the community.
Visitors to Emden are encouraged to explore the Martin-Luther-Kirche, whether attending a service, enjoying a concert, or simply admiring its architectural beauty. This remarkable church is not just a building; it is a living testament to faith, resilience, and the enduring spirit of Emden.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.