Hidden among the vineyards near Freiburg stands St Remigius in Merdingen. This isn’t just any church. It’s a masterpiece of late Baroque and Rococo styles. Built between 1738 and 1741 it replaced an older church. The older church was damaged beyond repair in a storm in 1737. Johann Caspar Bagnato a Deutschordensbaumeister designed and oversaw the construction. He also built a new rectory nearby.
Bagnato wasn’t working alone. Francesco Pozzi created the stunning stucco work. Joseph Anton Feuchtmayer crafted the altars and pulpit. Franz Joseph Spiegler painted the breathtaking ceiling frescoes and altarpieces. Even the Immaculata statue above the main portal a work of flawless beauty was created by Johann Christian Wentzinger who had relatives in Merdingen.
The interior is a feast for the senses. Warm yellow and red tones dominate the walls. The stucco is harmoniously distributed. It frames windows architectural features and the ceiling paintings. Spiegler’s ceiling paintings depict scenes from the life of Jesus. These include the Annunciation the Visitation the Nativity and the Presentation in the Temple. The cupola above the chancel shows the Holy Trinity surrounded by musical angels.
A unique detail is the Sanctus angel on the eastern edge of the Trinity painting. This angel is partly painted partly sculpted in stucco. It’s a perfect example of the close collaboration between painters and stucco artists. The effect is a seamless transition from two to three dimensions. The high altar is particularly impressive. Its columns and entablature are in a vibrant blue stucco marble. The altarpieces depict the baptism of Clovis I by Saint Remigius.
Restoration work has uncovered original details. For instance the emperor and empress figures are again alabaster white. They were previously painted blue and pink respectively. The church’s five-bell chime includes Baroque bells 19th century bells and bells cast in the 1980s. These bells not only ring for services but also mark the time. Smaller bells chime the quarter-hour the largest announces the hour.
St Remigius in Merdingen is more than just a place of worship. It’s a testament to the skill and artistry of the Baroque era. Its rich history and intricate details make it a true gem. It’s a highlight of any tour of the region. It exemplifies the beauty and artistry of the period. It deserves to be appreciated and admired. Take your time exploring this treasure. Don’t miss its details. Appreciate the work of all the artists involved. Their collaboration resulted in a lasting masterpiece.