St. Audomar

Nestled in the charming town of Frechen in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, St. Audomar stands as a testament to centuries of faith, resilience, and architectural evolution. This Roman Catholic parish church, with its distinctive neo-Romanesque design, invites visitors to delve into its rich history and explore its remarkable features.

The History of St. Audomar

The origins of St. Audomar are steeped in history, with its first mention dating back to 955 in the Acta Sanctorum, a biographical account of saints. Dedicated to the West Frankish bishop Saint Audomar, the church's connection to the Benedictine Abbey of Saint-Bertin and the Canons' Abbey of Saint-Omer is noted in a charter from Charles the Bald in 877. This unusual dedication for the region underscores the church's historical ties to West Frankish monastic institutions.

In 1553, Count Theodor von Manderscheidt assumed control of the church's tithes and revenues, which had previously been managed by the distant religious institutions. However, the church faced significant devastation during the Cologne War, when it was set ablaze. The tower and nave were rebuilt in 1714, while the choir remained intact. A major reconstruction occurred in 1857 under the direction of cathedral architect Ernst Friedrich Zwirner, who redesigned the church in neo-Romanesque style. The tower was again rebuilt in 1909, extending the nave westward and adding a new tower.

Exploring St. Audomar

As you step into St. Audomar, you are greeted by a sense of timelessness, with the church's architecture reflecting its storied past. The entrance area houses several historical tombstones, including one for Hermann Spies von Büllesheim, the lord of the now-vanished Spiessburg in Frechen, who passed away in 1571. This brown sandstone tombstone is located to the left of the entrance. On the right, in the Fatima Chapel, lies the heraldic tombstone for Johann von Lützenrath von Vorst and his wife Judith von Selbach, who were granted the knight's estate of Haus Vorst near Frechen and died in 1588 and 1591, respectively.

The Stained Glass Windows

St. Audomar's stained glass windows are a visual feast, showcasing the artistic talents of several renowned artists. Peter Hecker designed the windows in approximately 1931, followed by Hans Lünenborg in 1966. Anja Quaschinski contributed her designs in 1997, and Walter Prinz added his touch in 2002. These windows not only enhance the church's beauty but also tell stories through their vibrant colors and intricate designs.

The Majestic Organ

Music lovers will appreciate the church's impressive organ, installed in 2005 by the renowned firm Johannes Klais from Bonn. This instrument features three manuals and a pedal with 38 registers, offering a rich and varied sound. The organ's disposition includes normal couplers (II/I, III/I, III/I, I/P, II/P, III/P), sub-octave couplers (II/I, II/II), and super-octave couplers (II/I, II/II), allowing for a wide range of musical expressions.

The Resounding Bells

The bells of St. Audomar have their own fascinating history. Before World War II, the church received five bronze bells from the prestigious Otto bell foundry in Hemelingen/Bremen in 1924 and 1930. Unfortunately, four of the 1924 bells were confiscated and melted down during the war. However, the b0 bell from 1930 survived and now hangs alongside four new Otto bells cast in 1950. The five-bell chime produces a harmonious sequence of tones: b0 – c' – es' – f' – g'. The bells vary in diameter from 1770 mm to 1074 mm and weigh between 4000 kg and 750 kg, each contributing to the church's resonant soundscape.

A Visit to Remember

St. Audomar is more than just a church; it is a living monument to the faith and perseverance of the people of Frechen. Whether you are drawn by its historical significance, architectural beauty, or the serene atmosphere, a visit to St. Audomar is sure to leave a lasting impression. As you explore its sacred spaces and reflect on its storied past, you will gain a deeper appreciation for this remarkable landmark in the heart of North Rhine-Westphalia.