“Discalced’s Church” translates the name Barfüßerkirche. It gives a clue about its origins.
Introduction:
The Barfüßerkirche in Erfurt stands as a powerful ruin. It whispers tales of faith, war, and art.
Main Narrative:
Founded by the Franciscans in 1224 they were known as the Barfüßer meaning barefoot. The Franciscans settled just outside Erfurt’s gates. They were the first mendicant order in the city. By 1231, they had moved to a plot near the Gera river. The order established a school. A house of studies soon followed. By 1392, their studies were part of the University of Erfurt.
The church’s construction began after the city fire of 1291. The choir was completed in 1316. Work on the nave lasted until the early 15th century. Around 1400, the tower was completed. It became one of the city’s largest churches. Its High Gothic style was a prominent feature.
In 1525, the Barfüßerkirche became a Protestant parish church. Martin Luther preached here in 1529. The monastery buildings were later demolished to build city fortifications. A lightning strike damaged the nave in 1838. Extensive restoration work took place. Later, the Barfüßerkirche served as Erfurt’s Protestant garrison church. Plaques commemorated fallen soldiers.
Lyonel Feininger captured its image around 1925. He created several paintings of the church. One is in the Angermuseum. Another resides in the Staatsgalerie Stuttgart.
During World War II, the church’s art was moved to storage. Stained glass was stored in the cathedral crypt. On November 27, 1944, disaster struck. An aerial mine hit the church. The nave was destroyed. The choir was severely damaged. After the war, the choir was repaired. Services resumed in 1957. The nave’s remains were statically stabilized.
In 1977, the Barfüßerkirche became part of the Angermuseum. It became a branch for Medieval Art in 1983. Since 1989, conservation measures have been carried out. A plaque blaming Anglo-American bombers was removed. Since 2000, theater performances have been held within the ruins. Shakespeare’s plays have been performed.
An initiative was formed in 2007. Its goal was to preserve the ruin. They even hoped to rebuild the Barfüßerkirche one day. A bronze relief was placed on the outer wall. It shows the “Dance of the Dead”.
The choir had thirteen high windows. Stained-glass panes dated from 1230 to 1240. They depicted scenes from Jesus’ Passion and Francis of Assisi’s life. These are the oldest surviving images of Francis in the Holy Roman Empire.
The five-part winged retable dates from 1446. It is a significant carved altar. It was moved here from St Bartholomew’s Church after 1594. The altar shows the Coronation of Mary. Scenes from Jesus’ life surround her.
Also noteworthy are gravestones. Cinna von Vargula’s grave is from 1370. Albert von Beichlingen’s grave is from 1371.
Sensory Details:
Imagine the echo of sermons. Picture the sunlight through stained glass. Feel the cool stone beneath your fingertips.
Conclusion:
Today, the Barfüßerkirche stands as a reminder of Erfurt’s past. It is a testament to resilience. It serves as a space for art and remembrance. It connects us to centuries of history.