St. Gallus

St. Gallus, known locally as Katholische Pfarrkirche St. Gallus, stands as a beacon of historical and architectural splendor in the charming town of Flörsheim am Main, Hesse, Germany. This Catholic church, dedicated to Saint Gall, has been a cornerstone of the community since its completion in 1766, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the Rococo style and the rich cultural tapestry of the region.

The History of St. Gallus

The roots of St. Gallus stretch back to the 17th century, with the current structure being an extension of a building from 1666. The church's west tower, a defining feature of its silhouette, was constructed in 1706 by Johann Kersten. The present church, completed in 1766, embodies the Rococo style, a testament to the artistic and architectural movements of the time.

Over the centuries, St. Gallus has not only served as a place of worship but also as a cultural hub, hosting numerous sacred music concerts as part of the Gallus-Konzerte series. This blend of religious and cultural significance makes St. Gallus a must-visit for anyone exploring Flörsheim am Main.

Architectural Marvels

While the exterior of St. Gallus may appear simple, with its quarry stone masonry and round-arched windows, stepping inside reveals a world of opulence and intricate design. The large hall church features a narrow choir, which appears semicircular from the inside and three-sided from the outside. The south portal is adorned with a chronostichon from 1767, adding a touch of historical intrigue.

The interior is a feast for the eyes, with a mirrored ceiling and furnishings that epitomize the Rococo style. Apostle medallions and stucco frames around the side windows, added around 1913, enhance the church's ornate aesthetic. The elevated chancel, high altar, inclined side altars, pulpit, and baptismal font all contribute to the church's grandeur. The altar area, separated from the nave by a curved balustrade, features a high retable altar with Rococo paintings by G. Chr. Schütz the Elder, and ceiling paintings by Joh. Ignaz Heideloff from 1768. Among the original furnishings, a Pietà and confessionals stand out, reflecting the church's enduring legacy.

The Historic Organ

One of the crowning jewels of St. Gallus is its historic organ, originally built in 1709 by Johann Jakob Dahm for the Karmeliterkloster abbey in Frankfurt. This magnificent instrument, boasting 22 stops on two manuals and pedal, was expanded in 1748 by Johann Christian Köhler, who added a third manual of 7 stops. Following the dissolution of the monasteries, the organ found its new home in Flörsheim in 1809.

Described in an 1818 notice from the government of Hesse-Nassau as the best and most beautiful in the whole duchy, the organ has undergone several restorations, the most significant of which was carried out by Paul Ott from Göttingen between 1959 and 1961. Today, the organ remains a vital part of the church's musical heritage, with its original prospect and some stops still intact, making it one of the largest instruments containing parts by Dahm.

Gallus-Konzerte: A Musical Tradition

Since its inception in 1979, the Gallus-Konzerte series has transformed St. Gallus into a renowned concert venue, celebrated for its excellent acoustics and historic organ. The first concert, held on November 9, 1980, set the stage for a tradition that continues to this day, featuring mostly sacred music concerts of regional importance.

Organized in collaboration with the broadcaster Hessischer Rundfunk, some of these concerts have been recorded, allowing the magic of the performances to reach a wider audience. Notable recordings include works by Mozart, Mendelssohn, Rheinberger, Buxtehude, Bach, and Haydn, performed by the Collegium Instrumentale Alois Kottmann and the Figuralchor des Hessischen Rundfunks under the direction of Alois Ickstadt.

Visiting St. Gallus

A visit to St. Gallus offers more than just a glimpse into the past; it provides an immersive experience into the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Flörsheim am Main. Whether you're an aficionado of historical architecture, a lover of classical music, or simply a curious traveler, St. Gallus promises to enchant and inspire.

From its humble exterior to the lavish interior, from the historic organ to the resonant Gallus-Konzerte, St. Gallus stands as a testament to the enduring beauty and cultural significance of this remarkable church. So, when you find yourself in Flörsheim am Main, make sure to step through the doors of St. Gallus and let its history, art, and music transport you to a bygone era of elegance and grace.