Hidden within Oberkassel, a charming district of Bonn, stands the Alte Evangelische Kirche. This isn’t just any church. It’s a survivor, a testament to resilience, and a cornerstone of the community. The Alte Evangelische Kirche has witnessed centuries of history unfold, from its initial construction between 1683 and 1685 to its destruction and subsequent rebirth.
The Alte Evangelische Kirche holds the distinction of being the oldest Protestant church in the Bonn area. It’s also one of the first Protestant churches built in the Rhineland after the Thirty Years’ War. Imagine the landscape back then, still scarred from conflict, and this church rising as a symbol of hope. The church’s construction was significantly supported by the established and wealthy Protestant communities of the Lower Rhine and Brandenburg. Their generosity reflects the importance of this new church not just to Oberkassel, but to the wider Protestant community. Until the 18th century, the parish of the Alte Evangelische Kirche stretched from Siegburg to Bad Honnef, encompassing a significant portion of the Rhine valley.
Tragedy struck in 1689 during the siege of Bonn. French troops ravaged Oberkassel, leaving the Alte Evangelische Kirche in ruins. Only the outer walls and part of the roof remained. Yet, the community rallied, gathering donations to rebuild their beloved church. By 1698, the Alte Evangelische Kirche was restored, its original form largely preserved. Local basalt stones were used in the reconstruction, a tangible link to the surrounding landscape. During the rebuilding process, the main portal was moved from what is now Königswinterer Straße to Zipperstraße. This seemingly minor detail speaks to the changing dynamics of the town. In 1726, a new ridge turret was added, giving the church its distinctive silhouette. Further renovations took place in 1760 and 1821.
The story of the Alte Evangelische Kirche continues into the 20th century. In 1908, a new church was built in Oberkassel, designed by Otto March. This allowed the Alte Evangelische Kirche to transition to new roles. It served as a reading room for wounded soldiers during World War I, a testament to the community’s resourcefulness and compassion. Later, it became a food storage facility. During World War II, a grenade hit the church, causing damage. Only a makeshift renovation was possible at the time. Finally, in 1963, a comprehensive restoration began. The restored Alte Evangelische Kirche was reopened for the community on February 10, 1972, once again a place of worship and gathering.
Today, when you stand before the Alte Evangelische Kirche, take a moment to appreciate its journey. Notice the simple plastered hall, the high saddle roof covered with slate, and the large arched windows. Look for the arched doorway on Zipperstraße. It bears the inscription “HIMMEL UND ERDEN WERDEN VERGEHEN ABER MEINE WORDT WERDEN MITNICHTEN VERGEHEN ANNO 1683” (Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away, Anno 1683), a powerful message of enduring faith. The Alte Evangelische Kirche is more than just a building; it’s a living story, etched in stone and whispered through the centuries.