St. Bernhard in Welver, a picturesque village in the heart of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a hidden gem that beckons history enthusiasts and architectural aficionados alike. This enchanting church, with its storied past and striking baroque features, offers a captivating glimpse into the region's rich cultural tapestry. As you step into this sacred space, you are transported back in time to an era of monastic devotion and artistic grandeur.
St. Bernhard's origins are steeped in the spiritual fervor of the late 17th century. Constructed between 1697 and 1707, this church was originally part of the Cistercian nunnery in Welver. It stands proudly as a testament to the architectural prowess of the baroque period. The church was built north of the old St. Albanus and Cyriakus church, which now serves as a Protestant place of worship. In 1809, St. Bernhard was elevated to the status of a parish church, marking a new chapter in its storied history.
The church's structure is a plastered hall with two bays and a chancel ending in a 5/8 closure. Its west tower, adorned with a curved dome, adds a distinctive silhouette to the Welver skyline. The walls are punctuated by stepped buttresses and round-arched windows, providing a harmonious blend of form and function. The south portal, with its segmental arch and volute embellishments, invites visitors to explore the treasures within.
As you enter St. Bernhard, the interior unfolds like a baroque masterpiece. The cross-ribbed vaults rest gracefully on consoles, creating an atmosphere of serene elegance. The western bay houses the former nuns' gallery, a poignant reminder of the church's monastic origins. Above the sealed entrance to the gallery, the coat of arms of the former abbess von Aldenbruck, dated 1700, offers a glimpse into the church's illustrious past.
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The main altar is a stunning example of baroque artistry, with its twisted columns and broken pediments. Life-sized sculptures of Jesus, Mary, and the order's founders, Robert of Molesme and Bernard of Clairvaux, stand in majestic repose. At the altar's center, a painted crucifixion scene draws the eye, while the upper section features a depiction of the Holy Trinity. Flanking the tabernacle, cherubic guardian angels watch over the sacred space. Atop the altar, the Archangel Michael triumphs over Lucifer, a powerful symbol of divine victory. This masterpiece is believed to have been crafted in the workshop of E. V. Averdunck.
The side altar, a gift from Abbess Catharina Gertrudis von Bischopinck, was likely created in the same workshop as the main altar. Though simpler in design, it boasts a portal altar adorned with floral garlands and carved moldings. The altar painting depicts the Virgin Mary, while the gable is crowned by a sculpture of St. Elizabeth of Thuringia, flanked by representations of Abbess Gertrude the Great of Helfta and St. Catherine of Alexandria.
The pulpit, dating back to 1714, is a marvel of intricate craftsmanship. It hangs opposite the side altar and is accessed via a staircase with a richly adorned balustrade. The pulpit's basket features carvings of the four evangelists, while the soundboard is topped with a figure of John the Baptist. The pulpit's embellishments, including fruit garlands and golden grapes, add to its visual allure.
The organ, perched on the former nuns' gallery, is a musical treasure. Built around 1758, it was restored in 1986 by the Gebrüder Stockmann organ builders. While only the original organ case and manual housing remain, the new technical components and pipes blend seamlessly with the historic facade, creating an auditory delight for all who hear its melodies.
Among the church's other treasures is the octagonal font, dating to around 1750, with its laurel frieze and chalice form. The Flemish Madonna, a 16th-century oil and tempera painting on canvas, captivates with its serene beauty. A crucifixion painting from the early 18th century and a statue of St. Bernard, carved at the century's start, further enrich the church's artistic offerings.
The church also houses the grave slabs of former abbesses, crafted in the 18th century, and a bell from the 14th century, which rings with a unique pilgrim's mark. In 2005, four new bronze bells were cast, adding to the church's melodic repertoire.
St. Bernhard in Welver is not just a church; it's a journey through time, an exploration of art and faith. Its walls echo with the prayers of centuries past, inviting visitors to experience the spiritual and cultural legacy of this remarkable sanctuary. Whether you're drawn by its history, architecture, or serene beauty, St. Bernhard promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of North Rhine-Westphalia.
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