St. George's Church, Haguenau

St. George's Church, known locally as église Saint-Georges de Haguenau, stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural splendor of Haguenau, a charming town in the Bas-Rhin department of northeastern France. This remarkable edifice, alongside the St. Nicholas Church and the Marienthal Basilica, is one of the key religious landmarks in the area and has been classified as a historical monument since 1848.

The History of St. George's Church

The origins of St. George's Church date back to the 12th century, when it was constructed under the auspices of Frederick II the One-Eyed, Duke of Swabia and Alsace. The church was built on the site of an earlier Romanesque chapel, consecrated by Pope Leo IX, a native of Alsace-Lorraine. Authorized by the Bishop of Strasbourg in 1143, the construction of the Romanesque church was completed in 1189 and consecrated by Bishop Heinrich von Hasenburg.

Over the centuries, St. George's Church has undergone several expansions and renovations. The original Romanesque structure lost its choir and crypt during the 12th century as the church was enlarged to accommodate the growing population of Haguenau. Notable remnants of the initial building include two staircase turrets, the base of the tower, and parts of the crypt, semi-circular apse, and southern aisle.

In the early 13th century, the church saw significant Gothic additions, including the transept and the octagonal bell tower, which features small dormer windows on its spire. The new Gothic choir was consecrated by the Bishop of Basel on September 5, 1283. This period also saw the establishment of the St. George's work organization, which was responsible for the funding and execution of the church's expansion and embellishment projects.

Throughout the following centuries, St. George's Church continued to evolve. The nave's wooden frame was replaced in 1228 and again in 1258. The Gothic chancel and polygonal apse were likely constructed between 1268 and 1283 by a workshop that had previously worked on the western nave of Strasbourg Cathedral. The church's interior features intricate sculptures, including the atlantes on the north and south piers of the triumphal arch, which date back to the first quarter of the 13th century.

In the 14th and 15th centuries, additional chapels were built, and in 1496, Jacques de Fleckenstein, the imperial under-bailiff, commissioned a funerary chapel in memory of his wife, Véronique d'Andlau. This chapel, in the flamboyant Gothic style, features a ribbed vault adorned with the coats of arms of the Fleckenstein and d'Andlau families.

The church underwent significant restoration in the 18th and 19th centuries, including the addition of new murals, stained glass windows, and neo-Gothic furnishings. Despite suffering damage during World War II, St. George's Church was meticulously restored between 1958 and 1963, preserving its historical and architectural integrity.

Architectural Highlights of St. George's Church

St. George's Church is an architectural marvel, blending Romanesque and Gothic elements in a harmonious and visually striking manner. The exterior of the church is constructed from sandstone from the Northern Vosges and fired bricks, with the western facade, upper part of the crossing tower, and chancel featuring small and medium-sized ashlar masonry.

One of the most striking features of the church is its octagonal bell tower, which rises majestically above the town. The tower's Gothic design, with its pointed arches and intricate stonework, is a testament to the craftsmanship of the medieval builders. The tower also houses some of the oldest bells in Europe, dating back to 1268.

Inside, the church's nave is a sight to behold. Originally built with a wooden frame, it was later replaced with a vaulted ceiling in 1609. The nave is characterized by its ten bays, with Romanesque high windows preserved in the seven eastern bays. The interior arcades, supported by columns with cubic capitals, open onto the side aisles, creating a sense of openness and grandeur.

The Gothic chancel, with its elegant and airy design, is contemporary with the Strasbourg Cathedral. The chancel's windows are surrounded by sculpted foliage cords that rest on human and animal heads. Gargoyles, placed in pairs on the sculpted frieze crowning the buttresses, add a whimsical touch to the exterior. Inside, the chancel features a triple-niche tomb with seats for the officiant and his acolytes, and the walls are adorned with lancet windows and slender columns with foliated capitals.

Another highlight of the church is the Sakramentshäuschen, or sacrament house, dating back to 1523. This exquisite piece, created by sculptor Friedrich Hammer, is a true gem of stone carving, showcasing intricate details and craftsmanship.

Visitors to St. George's Church can also admire the Devil's Claws, marks believed to be made by soldiers' swords, seeking the protection of St. George before heading into battle. These intriguing marks add a layer of mystery and legend to the church's rich history.

Exploring St. George's Church

A visit to St. George's Church is a journey through centuries of history and architectural evolution. As you step inside, you are immediately struck by the grandeur and serenity of the space. The church's majestic nave, with its vaulted ceiling and imposing columns, creates a sense of awe and reverence.

The chancel, with its elegant Gothic design, invites contemplation and reflection. The intricate stone carvings, stained glass windows, and historical artifacts provide a glimpse into the church's storied past and the lives of the people who built and worshiped here.

Outside, the church's beautiful gardens offer a peaceful retreat, with colorful flower beds and well-manicured lawns. The surrounding streets of Haguenau, with their charming half-timbered houses and cobblestone paths, add to the enchanting atmosphere of this historical site.

In conclusion, St. George's Church is not just a place of worship; it is a living monument to the rich history and cultural heritage of Haguenau. Its architectural beauty, historical significance, and serene ambiance make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this picturesque corner of France. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, St. George's Church offers something for everyone.