St. Blasii

St. Blasii Church, an evangelical parish church in the heart of Nordhausen, Thuringia, stands as a testament to centuries of history, architectural evolution, and spiritual significance. This remarkable edifice, alongside the cathedral and the now-vanished St. Nikolai Market Church, forms a trio of historic ecclesiastical structures in Nordhausen's old town. A visit to St. Blasii is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of the town's past.

The History of St. Blasii Church

The origins of St. Blasii Church trace back to a predecessor building erected around 1220, first documented in 1234 under the reign of Heinrich (VII). Heinrich, following the orders of his father Frederick II, established a new district adjacent to Nordhausen, complete with a church, known as Hagen. Remnants of this early structure are believed to be embedded in the foundations of the current church towers.

Between 1487 and 1490, the church underwent significant reconstruction. The nave was replaced with a new structure, seamlessly integrating with the late Romanesque and early Gothic western towers of the original building. The year 1489 is notably inscribed on a keystone in the choir vault, marking this period of transformation.

With the advent of the Reformation, St. Blasii Church embraced Protestantism in 1524, with Johann Spangenberg, recommended by Martin Luther himself, becoming the first evangelical preacher. Spangenberg's contributions extended beyond spiritual guidance to include educational initiatives and the publication of edifying literature.

The church has withstood numerous trials, including the great city fires of 1612 and 1712, emerging unscathed each time. However, a lightning strike in 1634 caused the northern tower's helm to burn down, leading to its current asymmetrical appearance. The church also suffered substantial damage during the air raid on Nordhausen on April 4, 1945, but restoration efforts from 1945 to 1949 and subsequent renovations have preserved its grandeur.

Architectural Highlights

The architectural layout of St. Blasii Church is both unique and captivating. The two-bay nave, measuring 27.2 meters in length and 26.2 meters in width, forms a cross-shaped structure. The south gable projects prominently, while a cross arm extends from the north side. The church's octagonal towers are particularly striking, with their differing heights—a result of the 1634 lightning strike.

The church's foundation, unlike the cathedral's solid rock base, is built on gypsum karst, causing the south tower to lean noticeably northward. Inside, the church is adorned with a ribbed vault that spans the nave and the single-aisle polygonal choir, adding to its architectural splendor.

Exploring the Interior

St. Blasii Church's interior is a treasure trove of historical and artistic artifacts. The three stained glass windows in the choir, created in 1949 by the Glass Painting Institute Ferdinand Müller from Quedlinburg, depict the Nativity, Passion, and Resurrection of Christ, replacing the original windows destroyed in 1945.

The Renaissance pulpit, dating back to 1592, is a gift from the Nordhausen mayor Cyriakus Ernst. The pulpit's supporting figure, possibly representing Abraham, Moses, or an unnamed warrior, adds a touch of mystery. The pulpit's exterior features biblical reliefs separated by pilasters adorned with figures of the four Evangelists, Moses, Isaiah, and Jeremiah.

The baptismal font, a 1591 donation from Ottilie Ernst and crafted by Lorentz Fronhausen, stands as another significant piece. The altar cross, made of a tin alloy and approximately 100 years old, was unfortunately stolen before April 16, 2016, and remains missing.

Among the church's notable artworks is an epitaph by Lucas Cranach the Younger, created in 1558 to honor Nordhausen Mayor Michael Meyenburg. Although the original was lost in the 1945 air raids, a 1937 copy depicting the Raising of Lazarus now hangs on the north side of the choir. Additionally, an epitaph for Meyenburg's first wife, titled Ecce Homo by Lucas Cranach the Elder, has been missing since 1945.

The Organ and Bells

St. Blasii Church's musical heritage is equally impressive. The church's organ history dates back to a three-manual instrument before 1618. Various restorations and rebuilds followed, including a notable 1911 pneumatic organ by Ernst Röver. The current three-manual mechanical organ, constructed in 1991 by the Schuster company from Zittau, continues to enrich the church's acoustics.

The church's bell ensemble comprises five bells, with the Joedicke Bell, donated in 1969, replacing one lost during World War II. The harmonious chimes of these bells add to the church's serene atmosphere, calling the faithful to worship and marking significant moments in the town's life.

St. Blasii Church is not just a place of worship but a beacon of Nordhausen's resilient spirit and rich heritage. Its walls echo with stories of faith, perseverance, and community, making it a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring the historical and cultural landscape of Thuringia.