Stadtkirche St. Laurentius

Perched majestically on a promontory overlooking the serene Neckar River, the Stadtkirche St. Laurentius stands as a beacon of faith and history in Nürtingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. Known locally as Laurentiuskirche Nürtingen, this grand structure is the third church to occupy this prominent site and is a cherished landmark of the city.

The Historical Tapestry of Stadtkirche St. Laurentius

The history of Stadtkirche St. Laurentius is a tapestry woven with centuries of devotion and architectural evolution. The current Gothic edifice, a testament to medieval craftsmanship, began to take shape around 1470 with the construction of its imposing tower. By 1480, the choir was under construction, and the nave was completed around 1488 under the guidance of architect Hans Buß. Originally, the church featured a flat ceiling, which was later replaced with a neo-Gothic vaulted ceiling in 1895-96, adding to its grandeur.

The church has withstood the test of time and elements, including a devastating lightning strike in 1572 that led to the addition of another story to the tower and the installation of the Renaissance-style dome that crowns it today. The entrance for visitors is through a staircase tower designed by Heinrich Schickhardt in 1624, adding another layer to the church’s rich architectural narrative.

Architectural Splendor

The exterior of Stadtkirche St. Laurentius is a visual feast. The West Tower, with its square base, is divided into six sections by cornices. The sixth section features pointed arch sound arcades, and a gallery with a balustrade supported by a projecting cornice. The tower is topped with a graceful dome and a slender lantern. The stone base of the tower and nave is visible, while the walls are plastered in a soft pink hue, creating a striking contrast with the stone elements.

The church’s interior is equally captivating. It is a three-aisled late Gothic hall church without a transept, featuring a recessed choir. The nave consists of four bays, with the central nave being slightly wider than the side aisles. This subtle variation in dimensions creates a rhythmic and harmonious space. The columns of the nave are octagonal, with the arches of the arcades rising seamlessly from the columns without capitals. The vaults spring from round services that adorn the columns and walls, adding to the church's architectural elegance.

Rich Interior and Artifacts

The interior of Stadtkirche St. Laurentius is adorned with several notable artifacts. The chancel screen, crafted by Bernhard Keysser or Kaiser in 1624, is a masterpiece of wrought ironwork. A crossbeam in the chancel arch supports a crucifix carved by Simon Schweizer around 1622. The church also houses four Baroque angels, created around 1725, which once adorned an old organ prospectus.

One of the church’s most significant historical artifacts was the Nürtingen Altar, created in 1516 by the Master of the Nürtingen Altar, identified by the initials “C.W.” This splendid piece, now housed in the Staatsgalerie Stuttgart, depicted St. Anne with the Virgin Mary and the Christ Child, flanked by St. Joseph and St. Joachim. A replica of this altar now stands in the choir, continuing to inspire awe and reverence among visitors.

The Marvelous Organ and Bells

The Stadtkirche St. Laurentius is home to an impressive organ, built in 2004 by the Goll organ company from Lucerne after a fire destroyed the previous instrument in 2000. The organ, housed in a solid oak case, boasts 42 registers and is the fifth organ to grace the church. The church’s bells are equally noteworthy, with the oldest dating back to 1493. This bell, known as Domenica, was crafted in Blaubeuren. The other bells, cast in 1622 and 1948, contribute to the harmonious chimes that resonate through Nürtingen.

A Sanctuary of Serenity

Beyond its architectural and historical significance, Stadtkirche St. Laurentius offers a sanctuary of serenity and spiritual solace. The church’s spacious interior, with its well-balanced proportions, invites contemplation and reflection. The Lambert Gate on the south wall of the choir, opposite the sacristy door, adds to the church’s charm and accessibility.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or someone seeking a moment of peace, Stadtkirche St. Laurentius in Nürtingen is a destination that promises to leave a lasting impression. Its walls echo the prayers and stories of generations, making it not just a church, but a living testament to the enduring spirit of the community it serves.