In the charming town of Fürth, nestled in the heart of Bavaria, stands the Auferstehungskirche, a beacon of history and architectural elegance. This evangelical church, whose name translates to Church of the Resurrection, is not just a place of worship but a monument that echoes the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the region.
The story of the Auferstehungskirche begins in the early 19th century, a period marked by significant growth in Fürth's population. The existing cemetery around St. Michael's Church could no longer accommodate the town's needs, prompting the establishment of a new burial ground along Nürnberger Straße in 1802. This new cemetery necessitated the construction of a chapel, which eventually evolved into the grand church we see today.
On April 1, 1824, the Fürth magistrate recognized the pressing need for a new church to serve the spiritual needs of the burgeoning evangelical community. The design competition attracted several architects, but it was Anton Brüger's plans that won the day. His vision, characterized by the simplicity and clarity of the Neoclassical style, resonated with the aesthetic preferences of the time. The foundation stone was laid on April 14, 1825, and by October 15, 1826, the church was ready for its first service, a testament to the dedication and generosity of the local community, who funded half of the 23,611 Gulden construction cost.
The Auferstehungskirche is a stunning example of Neoclassical architecture. Unlike many traditional churches, which are oriented east-west, this church stands in a north-south alignment, a design choice influenced by its initial role as a cemetery chapel. The church's exterior is marked by its austere elegance, with clean lines and minimal ornamentation.
One of the most striking features of the Auferstehungskirche is its 36-meter-high tower, which stands proudly at the southern end of the building. Originally designed to be two stories high, the tower was extended to three stories thanks to a generous donation from a local couple, Margarethe and Leonhard Büttner, who had won a lottery. This addition included a gallery and a beautifully crafted wrought-iron railing. The tower is crowned with a copper spire and a cross, and it houses a trio of bronze bells that have been calling the faithful to worship since 1950.
The main entrance of the church is a sight to behold. Flanked by columns with Doric capitals, the entrance exudes a sense of grandeur and solemnity. Above the rectangular door panels, a semi-circular window allows light to pour into the vestibule, creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. In 1985, a ramp was added to the eastern side entrance, making the church accessible to all.
The interior of the Auferstehungskirche is equally impressive. The nave, measuring 30 meters in length, 14 meters in width, and 12 meters in height, is spacious and filled with light. The southern end of the nave is adorned with a wide gable, above which the slender tower rises.
The chancel houses the altar, a beautifully crafted wooden table in shades of brown, gold, and gray. The altar is adorned with a simple antependium featuring a cross and is flanked by wrought-iron candlesticks. Behind the altar stands a grand painting depicting the Resurrection of Christ, framed by Corinthian columns made of stucco marble. This masterpiece, created by the local artist Elias Oehme, is topped with a triangular pediment bearing the golden Eye of Providence.
The pulpit, a focal point of the church's interior, is accessed by a flight of 15 steps and rests on a robust Corinthian column. The sounding board above the pulpit is adorned with a dove and a cross, symbolizing the Holy Spirit. Below the pulpit is the ambo, a beautifully crafted piece by the sculptor Reinhart Fuchs, made of copper and embellished with a mountain crystal.
The church features two galleries, supported by wooden columns with Doric capitals. These galleries, added in the 1880s, have separate entrances from the east and west sides of the building. The organ, located on a protruding gallery at the tower end, adds a majestic touch to the church's interior.
The baptismal font, made of sandstone by the sculptor Heinz Heiber, is inscribed with the biblical phrase, He who believes and is baptized will be saved. The font's lid is adorned with a dove and a fish, ancient symbols of Christ and the Holy Spirit.
The church's windows, originally adorned with colorful stained glass depicting biblical scenes, were replaced with antique glass panes after being damaged during World War II. The ceiling, initially a flat vault, was replaced in 1913 with a coffered design featuring a central painting of the Sermon on the Mount by the Nuremberg artist Hermann Buschmann.
The current organ, installed in 1989 by Hartwig Späth, is the third in the church's history. This magnificent instrument boasts three manuals, 57 ranks of pipes, and 40 stops, and is played by the church's dedicated organist.
The church's three bronze bells, cast in 1950, replace earlier sets that were requisitioned during the World Wars. These bells, with their harmonious tones, continue to be a vital part of the church's daily life, marking the passage of time and calling the community to worship.
The Auferstehungskirche in Fürth is more than just a church; it is a testament to the town's rich history, architectural heritage, and the enduring faith of its community. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to this remarkable church is sure to be a memorable and enriching experience.
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