Evangelische Kirche Xanten

In the heart of the charming town of Xanten, nestled in the North Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany, stands the Evangelische Kirche Xanten. This historic Protestant church, with its understated elegance, is a testament to the town’s rich religious and cultural history. It serves as the main church for the Xanten-Mörmter parish within the Kleve Church District of the Evangelical Church in the Rhineland.

The Historical Tapestry

The origins of the Evangelische Kirche Xanten are somewhat shrouded in mystery, though it is believed that a Protestant community was established here as early as 1572. The church’s history is intertwined with the political shifts of the region, particularly during the Jülich-Cleves War of Succession. When Xanten became part of the Duchy of Cleves under the Treaty of Xanten, the Protestant church was afforded equal status with its Catholic counterpart. This led to the construction of a church on the Great Market in 1647, later enhanced by the addition of a tower in 1662.

Architectural Simplicity

The architecture of the Evangelische Kirche Xanten is characterized by its simplicity, a hallmark of Reformed church design. The three-bay façade facing the market is adorned with large pointed-arch windows that allow natural light to flood the interior. The central window is crowned by a baroque portal, featuring an angel's head and the date 1648, a nod to the Peace of Westphalia and the end of the Thirty Years’ War.

Interior Elegance

Inside, the church maintains its minimalist aesthetic. The wooden pulpit, positioned along the right side of the rectangular room, serves as the focal point. In front of it stands a simple wooden communion table adorned with a modest cross. True to its Reformed roots, the church is devoid of images and sculptures. The organ, perched on a wooden gallery opposite the pulpit, balances the space. This instrument, originating from Wesel, adds a musical dimension to the church’s serene atmosphere.

The Tower's Tale

Originally, the church lacked a tower. However, the vibrations from the bell, likely housed in a roof turret, began to damage the masonry. In response, a tower was constructed on the west side in 1662, a generous gift from the Elector. This addition not only solved the structural issues but also enhanced the church’s silhouette against the Xanten skyline.

Musical Heritage

The church’s musical heritage is equally noteworthy. During a renovation in 1785/86, funded in part by donations solicited by King Frederick II, the church received a new roof and an organ. Although initially thought to be crafted by the Emmerich-based organ builder Courtain, the organ was actually built by Ludwig König and his son from Cologne. Featuring 11 stops distributed across a manual and pedal, the organ was first repaired by König in 1792 and later restored by Weimbs Orgelbau in 2002.

Additional Treasures

Among the church’s other treasures are a brass lectern, two candlesticks, and a 16th-century chandelier. A commemorative plaque near the pulpit honors the church’s construction in tribute to the Great Elector, adding a historical layer to the church’s spiritual ambiance.

The Crypt Below

Due to limited space for a cemetery, the church was constructed with a large crypt beneath it. For 130 years, almost all of the deceased from the community found their final resting place in these separate vaults, making the church not only a place of worship but also a significant site of remembrance.

In conclusion, the Evangelische Kirche Xanten is more than just a place of worship; it's a beacon of history and cultural significance in the town of Xanten. Its understated beauty and rich heritage make it a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring this picturesque German town. Whether you're drawn by its history, architecture, or the peaceful ambiance, the Evangelische Kirche Xanten offers a unique glimpse into the past and present of this vibrant community.