Is it possible for a church tower to rise not from the west, but directly above the altar? That architectural quirk defines Althener Kirche. This church stands in Althen a district of Leipzig. It is more than just a building. Althener Kirche is a testament to faith and history.
Althener Kirche history began in the late 13th century. It was built as a late Romanesque chancel tower structure. The original design featured coupled round arch openings on the tower. Look closely and you can still spot them. The tower also includes a historic clock. The clock faces north and south.
Unusually, the church tower sits on the east side above the altar. Surrounding Althener Kirche is the village cemetery. The dead rest close to the living here.
In 1714 Althener Kirche received a baroque makeover. This transformation gave the church its current appearance. Step inside. You will find a bright interior. During a recent renovation underfloor heating was installed. This ensures warmth especially during winter.
Althener Kirche is not only a place of worship. It is a popular venue for weddings and concerts. The acoustics are wonderful. Many couples choose to begin their married life here.
The Althener Kirche boasts an organ created in 1855. Urban Kreutzbach from Borna built it. The organ has eleven stops on two manuals and a pedal. In 1957 Reinhard Schmeisser from Rochlitz overhauled it. Unusually the historic bellows ringer bell is still present.
The bells of Althener Kirche tell their own story. One bronze bell dates back to 1906. The Schilling bell foundry in Apolda cast it. Its tone is D2. Two cast steel bells were added in 1959. Schilling and Lattermann cast these. Their tones are H1 and E2.
Since January 1 2020 Althener Kirche has been part of a larger church network. Several congregations formed a sister church relationship. The Evangelical Lutheran Church Parthenaue-Borsdorf oversees the joint parish responsibilities.
The simple yet bright interior creates a welcoming atmosphere. The underfloor heating ensures comfort. The Althener Kirche is more than a historical landmark. It is a living vibrant center for the community. Its unique design its history and its role in the community make it a special place.