Ever wondered about the oldest village church tower in Freiburg? Here we are standing in front of the Melanchthonkirche. This protestant church resides in Freiburg’s Haslach district. It is more than just a beautiful building. It is a testament to centuries of faith and history.
Let’s step back in time. The first mention of a church community here dates back to 1261. Originally, it was a catholic church dedicated to St Gallus. From 1329, it belonged to the monastery of the Augustinian canons of St Märgen. During the Reformation, both the village and the church belonged to the Margraves of Baden-Durlach. They became Lutheran in 1556. Back then, the church was simply known as “Kirche in Haslach”. It did not have a specific patron saint.
Now, here is a fascinating twist. Two documents from 1493 and 1515 confirm a patronage. These documents resurfaced in the 20th century. The church received its current name, Melanchthonkirche. It was named after the philosopher and theologian Philipp Melanchthon. This happened when the church community joined Freiburg’s protestant community in April 1922.
The Melanchthonkirche showcases both Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements. The main entrance features a late-Gothic portal. The choir dates back to the 14th century. The oldest part of the structure is the late-Romanesque church tower. It is from the same era as the Freiburg Minster tower. This square tower features a gable roof. It also has round-arched sound openings in its upper section. It stands as Freiburg’s oldest preserved village church tower.
Inside this tower, three bronze church bells resonate with history. They were cast by the Karlsruhe bell foundry Bachert. The Christusglocke from 1954 weighs 253 kg. It strikes a c”’ -1 note. The Melanchthonglocke, also from 1954, weighs 177 kg. Its strike note is es”’ -1. The Gallusglocke from 1960 strikes f”’. It bears the inscription “One Lord, one faith, one baptism”.
The church’s interior is simple. The hall has a flat wooden ceiling. Three pointed arch windows on each side provide light. Before the Gothic chancel arch, the pulpit stands accessible by a small staircase.
In the sacristy, a statue of St Gallus resides at the foot of the tower. The historical frescoes were painted over in white. Since 1962, the choir has featured stained glass windows by Freiburg artist Hans Baumhauer. The church cemetery was relocated in 1842. During this relocation, many old grave slabs were found. Some are now on display inside the church.
The Muhleisen manufactory from Strasbourg installed the organ in 1974. It was restored in 1998. This instrument has 18 stops on two manuals and a pedal. It replaced an organ by E. F. Walcker & Cie from 1958.
The Melanchthonkirche is more than stones and mortar. It is a place where history, art, and faith converge. As you stand here, imagine the generations who have sought solace and inspiration within these walls. Take a moment to appreciate this hidden gem. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of Freiburg-Haslach.