Kanonissenstift Lindau

The Kanonissenstift Lindau, also known locally as Münster Unserer Lieben Frau, is a captivating historical and architectural gem nestled in the charming town of Lindau, Bavaria, Germany. This Catholic parish church stands proudly at the Marktplatz, in the eastern part of Lindau Island, and offers visitors a glimpse into centuries of rich history and stunning Baroque architecture.

The Rich History of Kanonissenstift Lindau

The origins of Kanonissenstift Lindau trace back to the year 810, making it one of the oldest ecclesiastical establishments in the region. For a millennium, it served as the church of the Kanonissenstift, a community of canonesses. The current structure of the church was built between 1748 and 1752 following a devastating city fire in 1728. The Baroque architect Johann Caspar Bagnato, renowned for his works on the island of Mainau and the New Castle in Meersburg, designed the church.

The construction of the church was generously funded by the widowed Princess-Abbess Therese Wilhelmine von Pollheim-Winkelhausen, whose coat of arms is prominently displayed above the chancel arch. In 1922, a major fire caused the roof and ceiling of the nave to collapse, resulting in the loss of the organ and the destruction of the ceiling frescoes by Giuseppe Appiani. The Munich artist Waldemar Kolmsperger the Elder was commissioned to restore the Baroque ceiling in 1925.

Another significant event in the church's history occurred on the morning of September 28, 1987, when the underside of the nave ceiling, along with the frescoes, collapsed, causing extensive damage to the pews, organ, and other furnishings. After five years of reconstruction and restoration, the church was reopened to the public on July 7, 1992, and consecrated on May 9, 1993, by Bishop Viktor Josef Dammertz. The frescoes were meticulously restored by Josef Lorch. In 2002, Bishop Dammertz elevated the church to the status of a minster, recognizing its historical and architectural significance.

The Architectural Splendor

The exterior of Kanonissenstift Lindau is characterized by its straightforward hall construction, featuring a short transept, a rectangular chancel, and a square tower with chamfered corners and a simple dome. The interior, however, is where the true beauty of the church lies. The high two-story arch openings along the side walls, with passageways between the double columns, create an impression of a three-aisled structure. The nave is flat-roofed, while the chancel has a shallow barrel vault. The central nave is surrounded by galleries on three sides, adding to the grandeur of the space.

Opulent Interior Decorations

The interior of the church is adorned with exquisite white stuccoes, colorful frescoes, and intricate Rococo carvings. The ceiling painting in the nave depicts the Assumption of Mary, while the altarpiece of the high altar shows the Adoration of the Magi. These artistic elements combine to create a visually stunning and spiritually uplifting atmosphere.

The Magnificent Organs

Kanonissenstift Lindau boasts two remarkable organs: the great organ on the west gallery, built in 1926, and the Marien-Orgel, built in 1993, located on the northern side gallery. The great organ, with its 60 registers, was constructed by the organ-building company G. F. Steinmeyer & Co. and includes 18 registers from the original 1898 organ. Despite being severely damaged in the 1922 fire, the organ was restored and expanded, incorporating pipes that extend across the entire width of the church's interior. The Marien-Orgel, built by Josef Maier, is a smaller instrument with 29 registers, designed for Baroque music.

The Majestic Bells

The church tower houses a six-bell chime made of bronze. Four of these bells were cast in 1772 by Johann Heinrich Ernst in Lindau, while two additional bells were cast in 2000 by the Bachert bell foundry in Heilbronn. The harmonious sound of these bells adds to the serene and sacred ambiance of the church.

Visiting Kanonissenstift Lindau

Visitors to Kanonissenstift Lindau can immerse themselves in the church's rich history and architectural splendor. The church's location in the heart of Lindau Island makes it easily accessible and a must-visit destination for tourists exploring the area. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a peaceful and spiritual experience, Kanonissenstift Lindau offers a unique and memorable visit.

In conclusion, Kanonissenstift Lindau is not just a historical monument; it is a testament to the enduring faith, artistry, and resilience of the community that built and restored it over the centuries. Its walls and decorations tell stories of devotion, tragedy, and triumph, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting the picturesque town of Lindau.