Nestled in the picturesque town of Füssen, the Spitalkirche Heilig Geist stands as a vibrant testament to the rich tapestry of Bavarian history and art. This former hospital church, built in the 18th century in the enchanting Rococo style, invites visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in a world of artistic splendor and historical intrigue.
The story of the Spitalkirche Heilig Geist begins in the late 15th century, when a generous couple from Füssen, the Borhochs, donated funds for the construction of a hospital. By 1467, a Gothic-style church was erected to serve the spiritual needs of the hospital's inhabitants. However, a devastating fire in 1733 reduced the original structure to ashes, along with the hospital and nearby city mill.
Rising from the ashes, the church was reborn in 1748/1749 under the skilled hands of master builder Franz Karl Fischer. Embracing the Rococo style, the new church dazzled with its ornate design and became a cherished landmark in the community. In 1978, the church underwent an exterior restoration, ensuring that its beauty would endure for future generations.
The architecture of the Spitalkirche Heilig Geist draws inspiration from the Klosterkirche in Dillingen, designed by the builder’s father. The church features a simple rectangular form crowned with a saddle roof. Its façade is a visual feast, adorned with a bell gable in volute form, two bells, and a striking shell-shaped window above the portal.
Inside, the church boasts a nearly square, single-nave design that creates a centralizing spatial effect. The rectangular choir is graced with a pendentive dome, while the walls are punctuated with large, shell-shaped windows that echo the design of the façade.
The artistic heart of the Spitalkirche Heilig Geist lies in its breathtaking frescoes and altars. The façade is a canvas for Joseph Anton Walch’s vibrant Rococo frescoes, which depict the Holy Trinity and the coat of arms of Bishop Joseph of Augsburg. To the left of the grand window, St. Florian stands in remembrance of the church’s fiery past, while St. Christopher, the patron saint of rafters, graces the right.
Inside, the chancel fresco captures the Holy Spirit surrounded by personifications of the Christian virtues: Charity, Clemency, and Faith. The nave’s ceiling frescoes illustrate the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit and the seven sacraments, inviting contemplation and reverence.
The altars of the Spitalkirche Heilig Geist are masterpieces of stucco marble. The high altar and the left side altar, crafted by Joseph Fischer, complement the church’s intricate stucco work. The right side altar, a collaboration between Franz Karl Fischer and Joseph Fischer, adds to the visual harmony. The high altar painting, attributed to Joseph Anton Walch, depicts the Pentecost, while the left side altar features a painting of Saints Catherine and Barbara by Paul Zeiller. The right side altar showcases a depiction of St. John Nepomuk by Bernhard Ramis.
Adorning the side walls are painted wooden medallions illustrating the Stations of the Cross from the late 18th century, originally housed in the Krippkirche. A guardian angel group, attributed to Anton Sturm, adds a touch of celestial grace. The gallery houses a four-register positive organ with wing doors, crafted by Andreas Jäger in 1734 for St. Sebastian in Füssen.
Today, the Spitalkirche Heilig Geist is more than a historical monument; it is a living part of the Füssen community. The Catholic parish community of Füssen utilizes the church for regular services, weddings, and concerts, ensuring that the spirit of the church continues to resonate with locals and visitors alike.
As you wander through the serene streets of Füssen, the Spitalkirche Heilig Geist beckons with its colorful façade and rich history. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or a curious traveler, this charming church offers a glimpse into the vibrant cultural heritage of Bavaria. With every fresco, every altar, and every architectural detail, the Spitalkirche Heilig Geist tells a story of resilience, beauty, and timeless faith.
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.
Buy Gift Vouchers
