St. Ursula

Nestled in the heart of Oberursel (Taunus), the St. Ursula Church stands as a testament to centuries of history, faith, and architectural splendor. This Roman Catholic church, dedicated to St. Ursula, is not only a place of worship but also a cultural monument protected by heritage conservation laws. As the main church of Oberursel, it serves as the parish church for the pastoral area of Oberursel/Steinbach in the Hochtaunus district.

The History of St. Ursula Church

The origins of St. Ursula Church are deeply entwined with the history of Oberursel itself. Before 876, a monastery dedicated to St. Ursula was documented in the area, marking the beginnings of sacred buildings on the hill where the church now stands. Archaeological excavations have revealed remnants of a 12th-century hall church, including a tiled floor dated between 1160 and 1180. By the late 13th century, the site was elevated to the status of a parish church.

The current structure of St. Ursula Church began to take shape in the mid-15th century, coinciding with Oberursel's grant of town rights in 1444. The church's construction spanned several phases, resulting in its distinctive architectural feature: a notable axial kink in the church's layout. This unique characteristic arose from a design change, allowing the nave to be positioned between the chancel and a small west tower from the 12th century.

In 1525, the Reformation reached Oberursel, bringing significant religious changes. However, after Oberursel became part of the Electorate of Mainz, Catholicism was reinstated in 1604. The church faced destruction in 1645 when French forces set it ablaze, but it was rebuilt and consecrated on October 14, 1659. Remarkably, the church's records have been preserved since 1601, offering a rich historical archive.

The Organ

St. Ursula Church is home to a magnificent organ, the construction of which began in 1789 by Johann Conrad Bürgy and was completed in 1793 by his son, Philipp Heinrich Bürgy. Originally featuring 21 registers on two manuals and pedal, the organ was replaced and expanded by the Bonn-based Klais company in 1923. A new organ was built in 1960 by Förster & Nicolaus from Lich, incorporating 29 registers behind Bürgy's historic facade. The organ underwent restoration in 2006, with its color scheme restored to its baroque original and an additional register (Salicional 8′) added. The organ's current disposition includes 30 registers and three pedal transmissions, with electric action and slider chests.

The Bells

St. Ursula Church boasts a unique ensemble of four bells, which originally rang in a rare motif approximating the tritone. Despite the musical challenge this interval presents, the bells' distinct tonal qualities made the sound more harmonious. Since the replacement of the largest bell in 2018, the bells now ring in the Westminster chime motif.

The oldest bell, known as Maria Craft, weighs 2600 kg and dates back to 1508. Cast by Georg Craft from Mainz, it survived a fall from the burning tower in 1645 and narrowly escaped being melted down during World War II. After several repairs due to cracks, the bell was eventually replaced with a new one named Maria Frieden in 2018, cast by the Gebr. Rincker foundry. The new bell's tone is a full tone lower than its predecessor, matching the large bell of the nearby Protestant Christuskirche.

Other notable bells include the St. Ursula bell, cast in 1696 by Dilman Schmid, and the Josef bell, originally cast in 1925 and replaced in 1954 after being melted down during World War II. The smallest bell, the Christopherus or Pfr.-Einig-Gedächtnis bell, was added in 1986 and has a medieval tone. Additionally, the Sanctus bell, cast by Rincker in 1981, serves as the transformation bell, and an undated fire bell remains on the tower's parapet.

The Tower Museum

The tower of St. Ursula Church houses a fascinating museum spread over three floors. The museum showcases artworks and sacred objects, offering a glimpse into the church's rich religious and cultural heritage. Visitors can also explore the tower clock, the bell chamber with its historic bells, and the former tower keeper's apartment. From the tower, one can enjoy expansive views over the entire Rhine-Main region, making it a must-visit for any traveler.

Notable Pastors

The history of St. Ursula Church is also marked by the notable pastors who have served its congregation. The first recorded clergyman in Oberursel was Vice-Pleban Albertus in 1275, followed by the first named pastor, Cono von Hofweisel, in 1296. Ambrosius Seibaeus, who served as pastor from 1604 to 1606, later became the auxiliary bishop of Mainz. Other distinguished pastors include Johann Bapt. Roth (1818-1840), Antonius Hörter (1840-1864), Dr. Rudolph von Linde (1864-1871), and many others, each contributing to the church's legacy.

In conclusion, St. Ursula Church in Oberursel is not just a place of worship; it is a historical and cultural landmark that tells the story of a community's faith and resilience over the centuries. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to St. Ursula Church promises a rich and rewarding experience.