Built in 1931 Heilig Kreuz in Cologne’s Weidenpesch district stands as a testament to a fascinating past. Its design a blend of tradition and modernity reflects the wishes of its parishioners. The church wasn’t always here. In the 1930s the older St Stephanus church struggled to serve the rapidly growing population. An architectural competition was launched. Eighty-eight designs were submitted. Heinrich Bartmann’s design won. His vision for Heilig Kreuz a balance of the old and the new was selected. The budget was tight only 180000 marks. The church had to be distinctly sacred yet modern.
Construction began in May 1931. The cornerstone was laid in July. A Christmas Eve service was held later that year. The official dedication by Bishop Wilhelm Stockums took place in June 1934. Heilig Kreuz became a parish church in 1937.Sadly many of the original windows were destroyed during World War II air raids. Thankfully they were replaced in 1952. New windows designed by Anton Wendling and created by Hein Derix are stunning. A rose window depicting the resurrection of Christ was added in 1953. It is based on designs by Hans Lohbeck.
Heilig Kreuz’s architecture is striking. The broad portal dominates the east side. The towering basilica-like nave is impressive. Simple gable and lean-to roofs complete the structure. The exterior brick walls are elegantly punctuated by tall narrow arched windows. Tuff stone accents the slender window frames. A large rose window adorns the entrance. Side entrances lead to small spaces for private reflection.
The interior is equally impressive. A large nave structured by six pillars dominates. White plastered walls are topped by a continuous beamed ceiling that extends to the choir. Low windowless side aisles are divided by wall panels linked by arched openings. The organ loft is integrated into the entrance area. It opens slightly rounded to the nave.
Initially a high altar block stood in the apse. It was surrounded by a crowned baldachin. This was replaced in 1937. A crucifixion group now takes center stage. The choir was later remodeled to comply with the Second Vatican Council’s directives.
The church’s treasures include medieval sculptures. One is a Madonna and Child. Originally thought to be Saint Anne and Mary it was later recognized as a Madonna with Jesus. The romanesque Madonna dates to around 1210. The late gothic Jesus child is from about 1430. The large crucifixion group in the altar was created around 1410 to 1420. Sculptures of Saint Anthony and Saint Joseph add to the collection. A Baroque Madonna possibly from the Jeremias Geisselbrunn workshop complements these.
Heilig Kreuz’s six bells are another story. Two are used solo. Two of three pre-war bells were destroyed during the war. Three bells were added in 1987 by the Eifeler Glockengießerei. They complement a 1981 bell. A solo bell cast by Christian Claren in 1861 also remains. The church is more than a building. It is a living testament to faith resilience and the enduring power of art.