Sankt Maria de Victoria (Ingolstadt)

In the heart of Ingolstadt, Bavaria, stands the magnificent Sankt Maria de Victoria, a Baroque masterpiece that beckons visitors with its rich history and stunning artistry. Known locally as the Asamkirche, this church is a testament to the brilliance of the Asam brothers, Cosmas Damian and Egid Quirin Asam, who were pivotal figures in Baroque art and architecture.

The History of Sankt Maria de Victoria

The story of Sankt Maria de Victoria begins on April 30, 1732, when the foundation stone was laid by Max Ignaz von Planckh, the then-rector of the University of Ingolstadt. Originally conceived as a meeting room and oratory for the Marian Student Congregation of the university, the church's construction was overseen by Egid Quirin Asam. Although some sources suggest that the exact involvement of the Asam brothers in the design is debatable, the church undeniably bears their artistic signature.

By 1733, the facades were completed, and the interior was stuccoed a year later. The church was blessed on July 1, 1736. Following the relocation of the university to Landshut and the secularization movement, the Bavarian Elector Maximilian IV Joseph gifted the church to the city of Ingolstadt. Initially used as a prayer hall for the Marian Congregation, it was elevated to the status of a church in 1807.

Architectural and Artistic Splendor

While the exterior of Sankt Maria de Victoria adheres to Baroque traditions, the interior is a celebration of Rococo design. The current altar, dating from around 1760, replaced an older one and features an altar painting from 1675 by the Landshut artist Franz Geiger. This painting, which predates the church, depicts the Annunciation to Mary.

The interior is dominated by a breathtaking 490-square-meter ceiling fresco, the largest flat ceiling fresco in the world. Painted by Cosmas Damian Asam, it portrays Mary as the Queen of Heaven and the Mediatrix of Divine Grace. The fresco is a marvel of perspective, with the corners of the ceiling depicting the continents of Europe, Asia, Africa, and America.

The Lepanto Monstrance

One of the church's most treasured artifacts is the Lepanto Monstrance, housed in the sacristy. Weighing 18 kilograms and crafted from partially gilded silver, this masterpiece was created by the Augsburg goldsmith Johannes Zeckl in 1708. It intricately depicts the Battle of Lepanto, fought on October 7, 1571, between Christian and Turkish forces. The monstrance is adorned with angels intervening in the battle, and its artistic value makes it one of the most precious monstrances in the world. The foot of the monstrance, originally a Turkish head or a kneeling Turk made of solid gold and encrusted with pearls, was destroyed during secularization and replaced in 1892.

In addition to the Lepanto Monstrance, the sacristy also houses the Tilly Cross, allegedly carried by the military leader Johann t’Serclaes of Tilly on his campaigns, and a Fatschenkind, a swaddled Christ child from the 18th century.

The Organ

The organ of Sankt Maria de Victoria traces its origins to an instrument built in 1987 by the organ builder Georg Jann. In 2006, the organ was restored and slightly modified by the organ manufacturing company Kuhn from Männedorf, Switzerland. The restoration included the addition of two new registers to the main work, and a new reed register in the pedal. The organ, featuring mechanical action and slider chests, is housed in a historic case created by Caspar König in 1736.

Visiting Sankt Maria de Victoria

A visit to Sankt Maria de Victoria is a journey into the heart of Baroque and Rococo art. The church's façade, with its intricate stucco work and vibrant colors, is a visual feast. Inside, the ceiling fresco captivates with its scale and detail, inviting visitors to lose themselves in its heavenly imagery. The Lepanto Monstrance and other artifacts in the sacristy offer a glimpse into the church's rich history and the skilled craftsmanship of the period.

Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, Sankt Maria de Victoria promises an unforgettable experience. Its blend of architectural splendor, artistic brilliance, and historical significance makes it a must-visit destination in Ingolstadt.

In conclusion, Sankt Maria de Victoria is not just a church; it is a monument to the artistic and cultural heritage of Bavaria. Its walls and ceilings echo the stories of the past, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and immerse themselves in the beauty and grandeur of Baroque and Rococo art.