St. Johannes and St. Martin

St. Johannes and St. Martin, known locally as St. Johannes und St. Martin, is an architectural gem nestled in the heart of Schwabach, Bavaria, Germany. This stunning church, with its rich history and Gothic splendor, is an unmissable landmark for visitors exploring the charming town of Schwabach. It stands proudly next to the town hall, dominating the skyline with its distinct spire and intricate stonework.

The History of St. Johannes and St. Martin

The origins of St. Johannes and St. Martin date back to the 15th century. Construction began around 1410, and the church was built in the Gothic style that was prevalent at the time. The choir, along with its roof structure, is one of the oldest parts of the church, dendrochronologically dated to 1418/19. The nave, a three-aisled hall church, was constructed between 1469 and 1495, based on designs by Heinrich Echser, also known as Kugler, from Nördlingen.

Remarkably, the church has survived numerous tumultuous periods in history, including the Reformation, the Thirty Years' War, and World War II, without significant damage. This preservation has allowed the church to maintain its original artistic treasures, including paintings and gilded decorations from the 15th and 16th centuries. The church also bears witness to the history of religious refugees from Austria in the 17th century, with notable epitaphs and memorials, such as the bronze epitaph of Agnes Dangrieß and the grave of Catharina von Bernerdin.

Exploring the Church

As you step into St. Johannes and St. Martin, you are immediately enveloped by the grandeur of its Gothic architecture. The high vaulted ceilings, towering columns, and intricate stone carvings create an awe-inspiring atmosphere. The church's layout, with its spacious nave and elegant choir, invites visitors to wander and reflect on the centuries of history contained within its walls.

A highlight of any visit to St. Johannes and St. Martin is the Schwabach Altar. This high altar, standing over fifteen meters tall and more than six and a half meters wide, is one of the largest late Gothic winged altars in existence. Created in the workshop of Michael Wolgemut, the teacher of the famous Albrecht Dürer, the altar was completed in 1508. Its intricate carvings and extensive use of gold leaf make it a masterpiece of late Gothic art. There is also speculation that the renowned sculptor Veit Stoss contributed to the polyptych.

The Organ and Bells

The church's organ, built between 1962 and 1964 by Orgelbau Weigle with the collaboration of Landeskirchenmusikdirektor Friedrich Högner from Munich and Kirchenmusikdirektor Oskar Stollberg from Schwabach, is another marvel. It boasts 51 registers spread across three manuals and a pedal, with four free and two pedal combinations. The organ's powerful and melodic tones add to the church's serene and contemplative ambiance.

The bell tower of St. Johannes and St. Martin is another point of interest. The bells, with their resonant chimes, have long been a call to worship and a symbol of the community's enduring faith. The tower itself, with its distinctive spire, is a landmark visible from various points around Schwabach, guiding visitors to the church.

Restoration and Preservation

Between 2010 and 2014, St. Johannes and St. Martin underwent a significant restoration to address structural issues and preserve its historical integrity. The comprehensive restoration project was divided into multiple phases due to the extensive nature of the work required. The first phase, focusing on the tower, began in June 2010 and was completed by early June 2011. Subsequent phases included the restoration of the Rosenberger Chapel, choir, sacristy, and library, with scaffolding reaching ten stories high within the choir.

During the restoration, a small chapel was set up on the construction site for visitors, while church services and musical events were held in nearby Schwabach churches. The community's support was instrumental in the restoration efforts, with numerous fundraising initiatives contributing to the project's success. By 2012, the church was honored as the Church of the Year by the KiBa Foundation, recognizing the dedication to its preservation.

A Living Church

Today, St. Johannes and St. Martin continues to be a vibrant center of worship and community life. In December 2019, the church gained national attention when a televised service was broadcast by ZDF, featuring a sermon by Melitta Müller-Hansen. This event highlighted the church's ongoing significance as a place of faith and gathering.

In conclusion, St. Johannes and St. Martin is not just a historical monument; it is a living testament to the enduring faith and resilience of the Schwabach community. Its Gothic splendor, rich history, and artistic treasures make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this picturesque Bavarian town. Whether you are drawn by its architectural beauty, historical significance, or spiritual ambiance, St. Johannes and St. Martin offers a profound and enriching experience.