Ebbergkirche

Perched majestically atop one of the highest points in Niederhemer, the Ebbergkirche stands as a testament to the town's rich religious and architectural heritage. This evangelical church, built between 1818 and 1820, has not only become a landmark of Hemer but also a beacon of history and culture, drawing visitors with its unique charm and storied past.

A Journey Through Time

The history of the Ebbergkirche is intricately tied to the Vituskirche, a church that stood in Niederhemer since the 10th century. Following the Reformation in the 1550s, the Vituskirche was repurposed as an evangelical church. However, over the centuries, the growing congregation and the deteriorating condition of the Vituskirche necessitated the construction of a new church. Thus, the Ebbergkirche was conceived to serve as a new spiritual home for the community.

The decision to build the Ebbergkirche was not taken lightly. In 1818, Pastor Wulfert reached out to the government in Arnsberg for assistance. The renowned architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel was initially tasked with designing the new church. His romantic-style design featured two square bell towers and a high, bright nave, with the pulpit and altar elevated along the central axis. However, the ambitious project, estimated to cost 50,000 Thalers, was deemed too expensive and had to be abandoned.

Instead, a more modest design by the Arnsberg building inspector Plaßmann was adopted. Under the supervision of local builder Johann Hermann Stindt, construction began in April 1819. The new church incorporated the historic baptismal font from the Vituskirche, a symbol of continuity and heritage. The pointed bell tower, which now defines the church's exterior, was a distinctive feature of the new design. On August 13, 1820, the Ebbergkirche was officially inaugurated, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Hemer's religious life.

A Living Monument

Over the years, the Ebbergkirche has undergone several transformations, reflecting the evolving needs and tastes of its congregation. In 1859, the original organ was replaced with a new, higher-quality instrument. The church's interior was also periodically renovated. In 1927, a local painter refreshed the wall decorations, though these were later discarded in 1953 when the Hamburg architect Gerhard Langmaack undertook a comprehensive redesign of the interior. This renovation reoriented the church by 180 degrees, placing the entrance at the tower side and the altar in front of a large western window.

In 2010, the Ebbergkirche underwent another significant renovation to serve as an Open City Church after the closure of the Martin-Luther-Haus event center. This transformation included the creation of new community rooms and the replacement of traditional pews with flexible seating. Despite initial protests from the monument preservation office, the renovation was deemed lawful by the responsible state minister for urban development, Lutz Lienenkämper. The church reopened on the first Advent of 2010 with a festive service, celebrating its renewed role in the community.

The Sound of History

The Ebbergkirche is also known for its impressive organ, built between 1977 and 1978 by organ builder Detlef Kleuker from Bielefeld-Brackwede. This instrument features 18 registers across two manuals and a pedal, with mechanical action. The church's bell tower houses three cast steel bells from 1947, resonating in the tones of d', f', and g'. These bells, mounted on cranked steel yokes with counterweight clappers, along with two small strike bells for the clock, add a melodious dimension to the church's ambiance.

A Cultural Hub

Today, the Ebbergkirche is more than just a place of worship. As the oldest church of the evangelical community in Hemer, it frequently hosts concerts and cultural events, drawing visitors from near and far. Its elevated location offers stunning views of the northern city center, making it a picturesque and serene spot for reflection and community gatherings.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Ebbergkirche offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Its walls echo with centuries of stories, from the early days of the Vituskirche to the modern renovations that have kept it a vibrant part of Hemer's cultural landscape. A visit to this historic church is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the enduring spirit of the community it serves.