St. Peter and Paul Church Oberstaufen, known locally as St. Peter und Paul, stands as a striking monument to history and faith in the picturesque town of Oberstaufen, Bavaria. This architectural gem, with its neo-Gothic flair, invites visitors to explore its storied past and stunning artistry.
The origins of St. Peter and Paul Church Oberstaufen stretch back to the early 14th century, when Count Hugo V of Montfort founded a collegiate church in 1328. This ecclesiastical establishment, originally housing six secular canons, was later expanded by Bishop Rudolph of Constance, who added a seventh priest. The church's historical significance is underscored by the original founding document, preserved in the Vorarlberg State Archives in Bregenz.
Over the centuries, the church has witnessed numerous transformations. The medieval church that preceded the current structure was constructed around 1389. After suffering damage from a fire in 1680, it underwent repairs and modifications in the 18th century. However, it was a devastating fire in 1858 that ultimately led to the construction of the present church, designed by architect Georg von Stengel and built by Anton Harrer between 1859 and 1863. Consecrated in 1865 by Bishop Pankratius von Dinkel, it became the Catholic parish church dedicated to St. Peter and Paul.
The neo-Gothic design of St. Peter and Paul Church Oberstaufen is a testament to the architectural vision of its creators. The church's 65-meter-high tower, with its pointed spire, retains its medieval base from the 13th century. One of the most captivating features of the exterior is the large fresco of St. Christopher, a work by Anton Harrer that adds a touch of color and charm to the façade.
Inside, the church is a treasure trove of artistic and historical significance. The chancel is dominated by a crucifixion group created by the Constance sculptor Heinrich Yselin between 1500 and 1510. These late Gothic sculptures, with their impressive dimensions, are among the largest of their kind, showcasing the skill and artistry of their creator.
The interior of St. Peter and Paul Church Oberstaufen is a harmonious blend of history and art. The chancel altar, surrounded by the crucifixion group, serves as the focal point of the church. Beneath this ensemble lies a sandstone sacrament house and a wrought-iron grille from the late Gothic period, adding layers of historical depth to the sacred space.
The pulpit, designed by Anton Harrer, is a masterpiece of neo-Gothic craftsmanship, created between 1862 and 1865 in Munich. The church's ceiling paintings, crafted by Munich artists Bonifaz Locher and Luitpold Heim in 1913, add a celestial touch to the nave, enhancing the spiritual ambiance.
Adorning the northern nave wall are statues of the church's patrons, St. Peter and Paul, while the southern aisle houses a Marian shrine sculpted by Ferdinand Preckle around 1863. This shrine, dedicated to the veneration of Mary, features a depiction of the Madonna and Child, accompanied by the diocesan patron Ulrich and the Apostle of the Allgäu, Magnus. Painted stone towers behind the figures evoke the lost neo-Gothic altars, connecting the present with the church's rich past.
Music fills the sacred halls of St. Peter and Paul Church Oberstaufen with the resonant tones of its historic organ. Built in 1919/20 by the Hindelang brothers, this instrument boasts 47 registers across three manuals and a pedalboard. Its pneumatic action and the subsequent restoration by the Zeilhuber company in 1997 ensure that the organ remains a vital part of the church's musical heritage.
St. Peter and Paul Church Oberstaufen is not just a relic of the past but a living testament to the enduring spirit of the community it serves. The church underwent significant restoration between 1977 and 1982, with further renovations beginning in 2020 to preserve its beauty and integrity for future generations.
As you explore the charming town of Oberstaufen, a visit to St. Peter and Paul Church offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the intricate tapestry of history, art, and faith woven into its very walls. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, this iconic church promises to leave a lasting impression on your journey through Bavaria.
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