St. Jakob in Wasserburg am Inn

Nestled in the heart of Wasserburg am Inn, St. Jakob, known locally as Katholische Stadtpfarrkirche St. Jakob, stands as a magnificent testament to the town's rich history and architectural prowess. This late Gothic brick church is a defining feature of the town's skyline, its towering presence a beacon for both locals and visitors alike.

The History of St. Jakob

St. Jakob's origins trace back to its first mention in 1255, when it served as a filial church to the Benedictine Abbey of Attel. The desire for a larger place of worship led to the construction of a new church in 1410, under the guidance of Hans von Burghausen. Despite interruptions, the project continued after his death, with contributions from his nephew Hans Stethaimer and later, Stephan Krumenauer. The church's choir, completed in 1448, was a masterpiece of late Gothic design, featuring five chapels and a sacristy.

The church's tower, a remarkable feature, was constructed between 1458 and 1478, initially overseen by Krumenauer and finished by Wolfgang Wiser. The tower's completion marked a significant milestone in the church's architectural journey, with an inscription commemorating Wiser's contribution.

Exploring the Architectural Marvel

St. Jakob is a stunning example of late Gothic architecture, crafted primarily from brick with elements of tuff stonework in the choir, sacristy, and tower. The church's exterior is adorned with large tracery windows and an unusual hipped roof on the tower, lending it a distinctive silhouette. Inside, the nave and choir are separated by steps and ribbed vaults, with star vaults in the nave and elegantly curved ribs in the choir.

Visitors will find a fascinating mural on the southeast wall of the choir, dating back to around 1460-1480. This artwork, depicting the Tree of Life, presents a visual narrative of original sin and redemption, with intricate scenes featuring Ecclesia and Synagogue, the Tree of Knowledge, and the Risen Christ.

The Splendid Interior

The church's interior is a treasure trove of artistic and historical significance. The side altars, crafted from designs by Johann Marggraff and Joseph Elsner senior, and the Sebastian altar by Heinrich Geigenberger, are notable highlights. The high altar's tabernacle, designed by Johann Brand and executed by Augsburg silversmith Joseph Muehmann in 1831, is a focal point of the sanctuary.

The pulpit, a masterpiece of early Baroque South German sculpture, was created in 1638 by Martin and Michael Zürn the Elder. Additionally, the chancel arch crucifix by Adam Hartmann and the painting of the Assumption of Mary by Johann Ulrich Loth further enrich the church's artistic heritage.

The Majestic Organ

Music enthusiasts will appreciate the church's majestic organ, originally featuring a prospect by Anton Bayr from 1764. The current instrument, crafted by Georg Glatzl in 1958, boasts 48 registers across three manuals and a pedal. It is a testament to the church's musical legacy, with the young Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart having played on its predecessor in 1763.

A Walk Among the Graves

St. Jakob also serves as a resting place for numerous notable figures, with a collection of gravestones and epitaphs from the town's patrician families, officials, and nobility from the surrounding regions. Among these, the Estermann Chapel houses the gravestones of Stefan Widder and his wife Elisabeth Scheuchenstuhl, crafted by Franz Sickinger.

Visitors can explore the epitaphs of Hans Steinhauf, Wolf Steinhauf, and Sigmund Perckhofer, each telling stories of the town's past inhabitants. The intricate craftsmanship and historical significance of these memorials offer a poignant glimpse into the lives of those who shaped Wasserburg am Inn's history.

The Bells of St. Jakob

The church's tower houses a historically significant set of bronze bells, cast between 1473 and 1663. The Great Bell or Storm Bell, cast by Georg Glockpitscher in 1473, weighs approximately 4,000 kg and resonates with a deep tone of cis1. Each bell, with its unique history and sound, contributes to the church's rich auditory heritage.

St. Jakob in Wasserburg am Inn is more than just a church; it is a living museum of art, history, and spirituality. Its walls echo with centuries of devotion and artistry, making it an unmissable destination for anyone exploring the charming town of Wasserburg am Inn.