Nestled in the serene town of Münchingen, part of Korntal-Münchingen in Baden-Württemberg, the Johanneskirche stands as a testament to centuries of history and architectural evolution. This evangelical parish church, dedicated to St. John the Baptist, is not only a place of worship but also a historical monument recognized by the State Office for Monument Preservation in Baden-Württemberg.
The roots of Johanneskirche reach back to 1275, with the oldest record indicating the existence of a church at this site. The current tower, a relic from this period, was originally constructed as a defense tower. It features a vaulted room at a height of about 12 meters, preserved in its original state, and retains its defensive arrow slits. The entrance to this tower was once accessible only by a retractable wooden or rope ladder, emphasizing its defensive purpose.
In 1933, during excavations for a heating and coal cellar beneath the nave, the foundations of the old church were uncovered, revealing its original width. As the congregation grew, the church underwent significant expansion starting in 1488. The Romanesque predecessor was widened and extended, transforming into the late Gothic hall church we see today. The choir, supported by buttresses, was added during this period. The interior spaces of the choir and sacristy are adorned with intricate ribbed vaults, featuring the master marks of builders Aberlin Jörg and Bernhard Sporer. The church was consecrated on April 27, 1496, by the Bishop of Constance.
The Thirty Years' War brought devastation to the church in 1643, with severe fire damage sparing only the outer walls and the choir vault. Reconstruction began in 1645 and took five years to complete. The tower received a pyramid roof crowned with a lantern, housing an additional church bell. In response to the growing population and a new seating ordinance, galleries were added in 1751.
Remnants of the original defensive wall surrounding the elevated church and its cemetery are partially preserved, integrated into a newly constructed retaining wall in 1982. A comprehensive renovation in 1965 saw the removal of exterior stairs to the gallery, restoration of original large windows, and refurbishment of the choir arch and vault. The choir area was further enhanced in 1968 with stained glass windows by artist Wolf-Dieter Kohler.
Scavenger hunts in Korntal-Münchingen
Discover Korntal-Münchingen with the digital Scavenger Hunt from myCityHunt! Solve puzzles, master team tasks and explore Korntal-Münchingen with your team!
The 11-meter-high choir space is a marvel of Gothic architecture, with a net-ribbed vault featuring keystones that depict figures and symbols from church and regional history. These include St. John the Baptist, the risen Christ, and various heraldic symbols. The artistic value of the sandstone tombstones for the family of Philipp Christoph von Münchingen, crafted by sculptor Jeremias Schwartz, is noteworthy. Despite damage during the War of the Palatinate Succession, these monuments remain a highlight, showcasing intricate depictions of the deceased and their ancestors.
The church also houses a sedilia, the clergy's seating niche, and a robust wooden door leading to the sacristy, adorned with late Gothic profiles and recognizable stonemason marks. The sacristy itself boasts a splendid ribbed vault and stained glass by Kohler.
Kohler's stained glass windows, installed in 1968, are a visual feast, illustrating the Protestant sacraments of Baptism and Communion. Dominated by hues of blue and red, these windows narrate biblical stories, from the baptism of Jesus to the Last Supper, and culminate in a depiction of the Heavenly Jerusalem.
The church's musical heritage is rich, with the first organ installed in 1733 by Heilbronn organ builder Johann Friedrich Schmahl. Over the years, the organ underwent several renovations and expansions, with the current instrument, featuring 22 registers, crafted by Peter Plum in 1972.
The original bells were lost in 1693, and subsequent bells were requisitioned during the World Wars. The current set, cast in 1955 by the Stuttgart firm Kurtz, includes the Herrenglocke, Betglocke, and Totenglocke, each inscribed with a line from the Lord's Prayer, and the Kreuzglocke, inscribed with He is our peace.
The Johanneskirche is more than just an architectural gem; it is a living monument that has witnessed the ebb and flow of history. Its walls echo the stories of resilience, faith, and community, making it a captivating destination for those exploring the rich tapestry of Baden-Württemberg's heritage.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 3 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.