What secrets lie hidden behind the stark, concrete facade of St. Gertrud? Constructed between 1962 and 1965, St. Gertrud stands as a bold example of Brutalist architecture, designed by Gottfried Böhm. This unique style, with its use of raw concrete and geometric shapes, might seem austere at first glance. But look closer and you’ll find a world of fascinating details. Did you know Böhm was recognized for his work on St. Gertrud with the Cologne Architecture Prize in 1967? The church’s design is a study in contrasts. Inside, rough-hewn walls soar upwards, converging to form a pointed roof that seems to pierce the sky. Light filters in sparingly, creating a hushed, almost cave-like atmosphere. Yet, this seemingly simple space holds surprising artistry. Embedded within the wall, visible from both inside and out, lies a monolith of Westerwald trachyte – the church’s foundation stone, laid in 1963. This stone, a silent witness to the church’s history, also serves as the holy water font, connecting the everyday with the sacred. The interior, while dominated by concrete, is warmed by a red brick floor, a subtle yet effective contrast. St. Gertrud might challenge your preconceived notions of what a church should be, but that is precisely what makes it so captivating.
Pfarrkirche Christi Geburt
“Look at that unusual shape,”” a passerby remarked, gesturing towards the Pfarrkirche Christi Geburt. “”It’s like nothing I’ve ever seen