Gethsemanekirche

“A church upstairs?” you might wonder, looking at Gethsemanekirche. Indeed, the Gethsemanekirche in Frankfurt’s Nordend district hides its sanctuary on the first floor. This unique design, a brainchild of architect Hans Georg Heimel, sets this church apart. Dedicated in 1970, the Gethsemanekirche stands as the last large church built in Frankfurt during the 20th century. Its striking architecture, a blend of warm brown brick and cool concrete, reflects the post-Bauhaus aesthetic of its time. The 31-meter high tower, a prominent landmark on Eckenheimer Landstrasse, anchors the building. It creates a visual marker as you look from the city center towards the outskirts. The semi-circular staircase, nestled against the main structure, adds another layer of visual interest. Inside the Gethsemanekirche, the sanctuary awaits on the upper level. This sanctuary is almost square, bathed in natural light filtering through colored glass collages by Bernd Rosenheim. These collages, located beneath the gallery, beside the pulpit, and within the tower, depict a stylized crown of thorns. They add a touch of modern art to the sacred space. An iron sculpture by Hermann Tomada further emphasizes this theme. Adding to the church’s modern feel, flexible seating replaces traditional pews, accommodating around 300 visitors. Below the main sanctuary, the ground floor houses functional and community rooms. Large glass windows offer views of the street and the inner courtyard, creating a welcoming atmosphere for gatherings. The Gethsemanekirche isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a cultural hub. It’s a venue for jazz concerts, known for its surprisingly good acoustics. It also hosts community events, where volunteers offer pretzels and drinks, creating a sense of community. Even the church’s history tells a story of adaptation and resilience. Built for a congregation of over 6,000 in the 1960s, the Gethsemanekirche continues to serve its community, now numbering around 1,700. So, next time you pass the Gethsemanekirche, remember its unique story. It’s a story of modern architecture, community spirit, and a church that dared to place its sanctuary upstairs.