St. Lamberti Church, a gem of late Gothic architecture, stands proudly in the heart of Münster, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany. This magnificent structure, dedicated to St. Lambert of Liège, is not just a place of worship but a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Built between 1375 and 1525, St. Lamberti Church has witnessed centuries of change and has stood as a silent sentinel through some of the most tumultuous times in Münster's history.
St. Lamberti Church is an outstanding example of Westphalian late Gothic architecture. The construction of the current building began in 1375 with the choir, which was completed in 1422. The church’s southern choir chapel, an octagonal central building with its own entrance, followed in 1448. The nave, with its intricate network and star vaults, was completed by 1525. The slender pillars that rise like tree trunks to support the vaults give the interior a sense of upward movement and grace.
The church is constructed from Baumberger sandstone, a local material that gives the building its distinctive appearance. The three late Gothic portals are particularly noteworthy, with the southwest portal featuring a relief of the Tree of Jesse, a beautiful depiction of Christ’s lineage. Although the original relief is now housed in a museum in Berlin, the replica still draws the admiration of visitors.
The church's tower, which reaches a height of 90.5 meters, is a striking feature of Münster's skyline. Originally, the tower was much shorter, but it was gradually increased in height over the centuries. By 1500, the tower had reached 50 meters. However, due to structural issues and the need for repairs, the tower was completely rebuilt in the late 19th century in a neo-Gothic style by the architect Hilger Hertel. The new tower, completed by 1898, is reminiscent of the spire of the Freiburg Minster and the towers of the Cologne Cathedral, with its intricate stonework and openwork spire.
One of the most fascinating and somber aspects of the tower is the presence of three iron cages. These cages were used to display the bodies of the leaders of the Münster Rebellion in the 16th century. Jan van Leiden, Bernd Krechting, and Bernd Knipperdolling, the leaders of the Anabaptist uprising, were executed and their bodies displayed as a grim warning to others. The cages remain a poignant reminder of the city’s tumultuous history.
Since 1379, the church has maintained the tradition of a tower keeper who blows a horn every half hour from 9 PM to midnight, except on Tuesdays. This practice, originally intended to alert the city to fires or other dangers, has become a cherished tradition. In 2014, Martje Thalmann became the first woman to hold this position, adding a modern twist to this ancient custom.
Inside St. Lamberti Church, visitors can marvel at the beautiful late Gothic architecture and the various works of art that adorn the space. The church's interior was extensively renovated following the destruction caused during the Münster Rebellion and later during World War II. The restoration efforts have preserved the church’s historical integrity while also incorporating modern elements where necessary.
One of the highlights is the series of statues created by the sculptor Johann Kroeß between 1602 and 1609. These statues, depicting the twelve apostles, once stood in the choir but were unfortunately destroyed. However, the southern choir chapel still houses statues of the four Latin Church Fathers: Ambrose, Augustine, Jerome, and Pope Gregory the Great.
St. Lamberti Church is not only an architectural marvel but also a place of immense historical significance. It was here that Clemens August Graf von Galen, later Bishop of Münster and a cardinal, served as parish priest from 1929 to 1933. During World War II, he delivered two of his famous sermons against the Nazi regime's euthanasia program, known as Aktion T4, from the pulpit of St. Lamberti.
The church is located at the northern end of the Prinzipalmarkt, Münster's historic market square. This area is a bustling hub of activity, with shops, cafes, and historic buildings lining the square. Just east of the church is the Old Fish Market and the Salzstraße, while to the west lies the Roggenmarkt. The Lambertikirchplatz, with its charming Lambertibrunnen fountain, offers a peaceful spot to relax and take in the beauty of the surroundings.
St. Lamberti Church is more than just a place of worship; it is a symbol of Münster's rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to this magnificent church is sure to be a highlight of your time in Münster. The church’s soaring spire, intricate stonework, and fascinating history make it a must-see destination for anyone exploring this beautiful German city.
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