St. Lucia in Stolberg (Rheinland)

St. Lucia in Stolberg, also known locally as St. Lucia, is a captivating historical and architectural gem nestled in the charming old town of Stolberg, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany. This venerable church, which stands east of the Stolberg Castle, is the oldest in the city and serves as the mother church to other parishes in the region. Its rich history and striking architecture make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

The History of St. Lucia in Stolberg

The origins of St. Lucia in Stolberg trace back to the 14th century when it was first mentioned as the chapel of Stolberg Castle. Initially dedicated to the Holy Trinity, a typical dedication for castle chapels, it was situated within the old castle. However, this original chapel was destroyed along with the castle in 1375. The newer chapel, built in the 15th or 16th century, is depicted in a 1548 map of the Vicht Valley by Egidius von Walschaple, showing a small chapel nestled against the castle rock.

Throughout the centuries, St. Lucia experienced numerous changes and expansions. In the mid-16th century, the church faced disputes over the appointment of its pastors, with the castle lord Hieronymus von Efferen appointing a pastor without the consent of the Eschweiler parish priest. This led to a series of conflicts, including the temporary use of the chapel by Lutherans from 1592 to 1606. By 1745, St. Lucia had become an independent parish, no longer a vicariate of the Eschweiler church of St. Peter and Paul.

Significant figures in the church's history include Roland Ritzefeld, who expanded the church and established the Rolandshaus and Bethlehem Hospital, and Maximilian Goffart, who installed a concert organ and later became an auxiliary bishop in Aachen. Today, the parish is led by Pastor Funken, who also oversees the St. Mariä Himmelfahrt parish.

Architecture and Surroundings

St. Lucia in Stolberg is a neo-Romanesque basilica with three naves, reflecting the architectural styles of the mid-19th and early 20th centuries. The church's current form is the result of expansions necessitated by population growth due to industrialization. The choir was extended, and the construction of the side aisles began under the direction of Pastor Ritzefeld. The church tower, which crowns the building to the west, was begun in 1759, with its lower floors still retaining their original structure. The tower was later modified after World War II, replacing its spire with an onion dome.

Visitors can access the church from the north via a steep staircase descending from the castle square or from the south through a staircase leading to the main portal. A striking limestone sculpture of the devil with a rooster greets visitors at the southern entrance, adding an intriguing element to the church's exterior. The church is built into a hillside, giving it a unique and picturesque setting.

The Churchyard and Windows

The churchyard, which was closed in the late 19th century in favor of a new cemetery on Bergstraße, is now a green space serving as a passage from the northern castle forecourt to Vogelsang. An old plague cross stands within this area, a somber reminder of the past.

The windows of St. Lucia are notable for their historical and artistic significance. The north side windows, dating from 1891, are in the historicist style and were crafted by the Johannishütte on Zweifallerstraße. These windows depict scenes from the Acts of the Apostles and are among the early works of Christian Schneiders, a renowned glass artist from Stolberg. The sacrament chapel window, created by Aachen glass painter Maria Katzgrau in 1970, features colorful ornaments and adds to the church's artistic heritage.

The Organ and Bells

St. Lucia's organ, built in 1976 by Heinz Wilbrand, incorporates eight registers from its predecessor, constructed by Georg Stahlhuth & Co. in 1938. The instrument boasts 42 registers across three manuals and a pedal, with mechanical play and electric register actions. The organ's construction required the removal of the upper of the originally two existing galleries, enhancing the acoustics and visual appeal of the church's interior.

The church's bell tower houses a set of four bronze bells, cast by the Otto bell foundry in 1921 and 1962. The bells, with their harmonious tones, continue to call the faithful to worship and mark significant moments in the community's life.

The Church Treasury

St. Lucia's treasury includes a collection of sacred objects, vestments, windows, books, and sculptures. Among the notable items is a baroque Capuchin chalice, crafted from melted silver candlesticks, and a 1724 cross used for administering the sacraments to the sick and dying. Although a neo-Gothic monstrance was stolen in 1919, the treasury still holds many valuable and historically significant artifacts.

In conclusion, St. Lucia in Stolberg is not just a church; it is a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Stolberg. Its architectural beauty, historical significance, and serene surroundings make it a fascinating destination for anyone visiting this picturesque German town. Whether you are a history aficionado, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, St. Lucia in Stolberg offers a captivating glimpse into the past and a peaceful retreat in the present.