St. Aegidius

St. Aegidius Church, known locally as St.-Aegidius-Kirche, stands as a beacon of historical and architectural splendor in the charming town of Rheda-Wiedenbrück, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. This venerable church has been a central part of the community for over a millennium, serving as a spiritual and cultural hub for the region. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and significant artifacts make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this picturesque part of Germany.

The History of St. Aegidius

The origins of St. Aegidius Church date back to around 785 AD when it was established as a small mission church at a crossing of the Ems River. This humble beginning marked the start of a spiritual journey that would see the church grow into a significant religious center for the upper Emsland region. Over the centuries, St. Aegidius has witnessed numerous transformations, each adding layers of history and charm to its structure.

In the 9th century, the church was expanded into a three-nave basilica with an eastern transept. The 11th and 12th centuries saw further reconstruction, maintaining the basilica's original style. The 13th century brought about two significant construction phases, replacing the transept and the choir. By 1502, the nave was rebuilt as a three-nave hall with four bays, a design that has largely been preserved to this day.

The Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) left its mark on St. Aegidius, with the church suffering damage during the siege of Wiedenbrück. Restoration efforts in 1651 helped repair the war-torn structure. The church's iconic tower, originally built with a pointed helmet, was replaced between 1848 and 1851 due to structural concerns. The new 56-meter tower, topped with a baroque dome, remains a defining feature of the church's silhouette.

Throughout the 20th century, St. Aegidius underwent several renovations, including the addition of new bronze bells in 1946 and extensive interior restorations in 1970 and 2006. These efforts have ensured the church remains a vibrant and active place of worship while preserving its historical integrity.

Architectural Highlights

St. Aegidius Church is a testament to the evolving architectural styles that have influenced its design over the centuries. The church's exterior is dominated by its three-story tower, with the lower levels showcasing Romanesque elements and the upper level featuring Gothic design. This blend of styles creates a visually striking and harmonious appearance.

The nave of the church is a hall with three square bays in each of the three naves, embodying the Westphalian square design typical of the region. The transept, which barely extends beyond the nave, and the single-nave choir add to the church's unique layout. Inside, the ribbed vaults are supported by large octagonal pillars, creating a sense of grandeur and stability.

The church's large windows, adorned with late Gothic tracery crowns, allow natural light to flood the interior, enhancing the serene and contemplative atmosphere. The main portal, located on the south side of the middle nave bay, serves as the primary entrance from the market square. Adjacent to the main portal is the Vesperbild Chapel, adding another layer of historical and architectural interest to the site.

Notable Artifacts and Features

St. Aegidius is home to several significant artifacts that reflect its rich history and artistic heritage. One of the most notable is the sacrament house, believed to have been created by Berndt Bunekemann of Münster in 1504. This intricately designed piece is considered one of the finest examples of its kind in Westphalia.

The church also houses a late Gothic Madonna with rays, a Marian altar from 1642, and a sandstone pulpit from 1617. The pulpit, adorned with a life-sized figure of Moses and relief images from the Old and New Testaments, is attributed to the sculptor Adam Stenelt.

Other notable features include the Rosary window from 1878 and the Stations of the Cross (1900/1901) by painter Anton Waller, which incorporate background motifs from the town of Wiedenbrück. The Vesperbild Chapel, constructed in 1871 based on plans by Güldenpfennig and executed by sculptor Franz Goldkuhle, is another highlight.

Outside, the church's walls bear so-called plague scratches, remnants of a time when desperate people would scrape dust from the walls, believing it had protective properties against the deadly plague.

The Organ

The organ at St. Aegidius is a masterpiece in its own right. Built in 1913 by the Speith-Orgelbau company from Rietberg, the organ has undergone several modifications and restorations over the years. The most recent renovation in 2007 saw the organ being technically rebuilt while retaining much of its original pipe material. Today, the organ boasts 52 registers on four manuals and a pedal, with mechanical action and electric register action. Unique features include a carillon, cymbal star, sparrows, and a cuckoo, adding to the instrument's charm and versatility.

St. Aegidius Church is more than just a place of worship; it is a living monument to the history, culture, and artistic heritage of Rheda-Wiedenbrück. Its stunning architecture, rich history, and significant artifacts make it an essential stop for anyone visiting this beautiful region of Germany. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, St. Aegidius offers something for everyone.