St. Josef (Starnberg)

Nestled amidst the serene hills of Starnberg, Bavaria, the St. Josef Church stands as a testament to the exquisite artistry and spiritual devotion of the 18th century. This charming Rococo masterpiece is not only a place of worship but also a cultural treasure that beckons history enthusiasts and art lovers alike.

The History of St. Josef Church

The origins of St. Josef Church are as fascinating as its architecture. Built during the latter half of the 18th century, it replaced a former guest and dance house of the adjacent Starnberg Castle. Commissioned by Elector Maximilian III Joseph, the church's construction was a costly endeavor, with expenses ballooning from the initially planned 2,145 gulden to an astonishing 7,537 gulden, excluding the ornate high altar.

The foundation stone was laid on May 13, 1764, and the church was consecrated on August 6, 1770. The architectural vision was brought to life by the Viennese architect Leonhard Matthäus Gießl, with the construction overseen by Johann Däxner and later Matthias Mittermaier. Originally dedicated to six saints, including St. Joseph, it wasn't until the 19th century that he became the church's sole patron.

Architectural Marvels

St. Josef Church is a single-nave structure with a recessed choir, crowned by a slender, three-story tower. This tower transitions from a square base to an octagonal middle section, topped with a classic Bavarian double onion dome. The southern side of the choir houses a quaint sacristy, while the lakeside apse is elegantly curved.

Inside, the nave is divided into two bays, leading to a richly decorated choir. The painted arches rest on pillars adorned with Corinthian-inspired pilasters, creatively modified with unique medallion-like surfaces featuring Christograms. This architectural style echoes the work of Borromini, creating a rhythmically elegant space.

The Artistic Interior

Despite appearances, the pilasters are not made of marble but are skillfully painted to mimic its luxurious texture. The flat domes of the nave and choir are adorned with frescoes by Christian Wink, his first complete cycle, created between 1765 and 1766. These Trompe-l'œil masterpieces extend the church's space into the heavens, depicting divine providence and the daily life of the Holy Family.

The choir dome's fresco illustrates the plea of various Bavarian estates to Mary and Joseph for intercession with the Holy Trinity. Notable figures from the time, including the electoral caretaker Franz Weigl, are depicted, alongside allegorical representations of Bavaria.

The High Altar

The pièce de résistance of St. Josef is undoubtedly the high altar, a remarkable creation by Ignaz Günther. Crafted from linden wood, the altar features the Holy Family, with Mary holding the Christ Child and Joseph nearby, all surrounded by a celestial array of cherubs. The altar's absence of a traditional painting is compensated by its intricate design and gilded elegance.

Flanking the altar are statues of St. John Nepomuk and St. Francis Xavier, adding to the altar's grandeur. This sophisticated and acclaimed piece is a highlight of the church's Rococo style, subtly transitioning into early Classicism with its restrained ornamentation and pastel hues.

Exploring the Church

Visitors enter the church through entrances on the nave's long sides, a unique feature. The southern entrance is adorned with memorial plaques honoring fallen soldiers from the Franco-Prussian War and World War I. Inside, the white stuccoed gallery houses the church's organ, adding to the serene ambiance.

The church's furnishings, including the pews, choir stalls, and confessional, were crafted by Bartholomäus Zwinck in 1766. His gilded pulpit, originally made for Munich's Elisabeth Church, now graces St. Josef, showcasing the attributes of the Evangelist John.

Visiting St. Josef

A visit to St. Josef in Starnberg is not just a journey through religious history but an exploration of artistic excellence. The church's location, nestled near the castle garden and offering views of the picturesque Bavarian landscape, makes it an ideal spot for contemplation and appreciation of its historical significance.

As you wander through the church, take a moment to admire the frescoes, the delicate stuccowork by Franz Xaver Feuchtmayer, and the intricate symbolism embedded in every corner. St. Josef Church is more than a place of worship; it's a window into the past, a celebration of faith and art that continues to inspire and captivate all who visit.