Ressurection church (Neustadt near Coburg)

Nestled in the charming town of Neustadt bei Coburg in Bavaria, Germany, the Resurrection Church, locally known as Auferstehungskirche, stands as a testament to the region's rich history and architectural beauty. This exquisite church, built in the distinctive Margrave style, has been a spiritual and cultural landmark since its consecration in 1757.

The History of Resurrection Church

The story of the Resurrection Church begins in the 17th century when the town of Neustadt established a new cemetery outside the city to replace the one surrounding the town church. Initially, a small preacher's house served as a shelter for mourners. However, the need for a more substantial structure led to the commissioning of a cemetery church. On October 21, 1754, Johann Georg Heinrich König, a master mason from Coburg, was entrusted with its construction.

The building process began on April 23, 1755, with the laying of the foundation stone on June 12 of the same year. By May 17, 1757, the construction was completed, and the church was consecrated on October 9, 1757, by Superintendent Christian Gottlob Friedrich Eyring, who was later laid to rest in the church's altar room. The project cost approximately 4,887 guilders, a significant sum at the time.

Architectural Marvel

Resurrection Church is a prime example of the Ansbach Margrave style, characterized by its rectangular, hall-like structure. Measuring 17.4 meters in length and 10.3 meters in width, it boasts a slate hipped roof crowned with an octagonal roof turret featuring arcades and a dome. The eastern side houses a sacristy with a barrel vault, adding to the church's architectural charm.

The interior is adorned with a plastered flat ceiling embellished with stucco-like decorations in the corners. The focal point is the pulpit altar on the eastern narrow side, complemented by a double-story wooden gallery on the other sides. The sandstone facade is accentuated by Doric pilasters at the corners and two rows of flat-arched windows on the side walls. The south and west sides feature central flat-arched doors, with the southern door being particularly ornate, showcasing ionic pilasters and a broken flat-arched pediment with the initials of Duke Franz Josias and a heraldic wreath.

Artistic Treasures

Inside the church, visitors can marvel at the artistic and historical treasures. Noteworthy is the wooden sound cover of the pulpit, crafted by Coburg artist Johann Eusebius Kauffmann. It features a figure of the risen Christ with a victory flag, a masterpiece of Lindenwood carving. Since 1980, a tapestry by Prague artist Eva Vajceova has adorned the interior, adding a touch of modern sacred art.

Suspended in the center of the room is the Maranata Crown, a chandelier made of stainless steel and glass, designed by Pastor Günter-Uwe Thie. This chandelier echoes the Franconian tradition of the metal funeral crown, a symbol of honor placed on coffins during funeral processions.

The Bells and Organ

The church's roof turret houses two bells cast in 1756 by Johann Andreas Mayer in Coburg. The larger bell, weighing 290 pounds, has a diameter of 65 centimeters and a striking note of Dis. It bears the ducal coat of arms and the name of Duke Franz Josias. The smaller bell weighs 170 pounds, with a diameter of 55 centimeters and a striking note of Fis. These bells, costing 230 guilders, were first rung on July 10, 1756.

The church's first organ was installed in 1810 by Neustadt organ builder Johann Andreas Hofmann, using parts from the old town church organ. In 1940, a new organ with pneumatic action, two manuals, a pedal, and twelve registers was installed by the Steinmeyer organ building company from Oettingen, costing 6,000 Reichsmarks. The organ case features a five-part prospect with a round tower in the center, flanked by lower flat fields and elevated rectangular fields with floral carvings.

A Place for All

In 2023, the town of Neustadt took over the church from the Evangelical community of St. George to make it available for funeral services for people of all faiths or those without any religious affiliation. This decision reflects the church's ongoing commitment to serving the community and embracing diversity.

The Resurrection Church in Neustadt bei Coburg is not just a place of worship; it is a symbol of resilience, history, and artistic beauty. Whether you're drawn to its architectural splendor, its rich history, or its role as a community hub, a visit to this remarkable church promises an enriching experience. As you explore its hallowed halls, you'll find yourself transported back in time, surrounded by the echoes of centuries past and the enduring spirit of this Bavarian gem.