Consider this: a church that was built and then, decades later, torn down. I am talking about Laurentiuskirche. Today, we stand before a testament to faith, community, and architectural evolution. This is the Laurentiuskirche in Rohr, a district of Stuttgart. Its story is one of resilience, innovation, and the enduring spirit of its congregation.
Let’s journey back to the late 15th century. The original Laurentiuskirche stood here. Over time, it fell into disrepair. By 1914, the community knew they needed a new house of worship.
Architect Martin Elsaesser, who also designed Stuttgart’s Market Hall, drew up plans for a new Laurentiuskirche. World War I broke out and construction was delayed. It was not until March 1925 that Elsaesser submitted revised sketches. Construction finally began in July.
By early 1926, the new Laurentiuskirche was complete. It could accommodate 626 people. Elsaesser cleverly integrated the existing Gothic chancel tower from 1740 into his design. He also used existing walls. The upper part of the new church was built with timber framing. Inside, wooden galleries wrapped around three sides. These created a modern and spacious interior. In 1930, Elsaesser’s designs were displayed at the Stuttgart exhibition “Contemporary Church Art in Württemberg.”
Sadly, the Laurentiuskirche suffered irreparable damage from war and rot. By 1979, it had to be torn down. Only the tower was saved. A new community center was built on the site between 1979 and 1981. Rainer Zinsmeister and Giselher Scheffler designed it.
Interestingly, Friedhelm Grundmann, a former student of Elsaesser, was the chairman of the architectural competition. He advocated for preserving the tower. The new community center provides space for worship, community gatherings, apartments, and a kindergarten.
The Laurentiuskirche’s history goes back to the 14th century. The Gothic chancel tower with its timber-framed top from 1740 still stands. Martin Elsässer added a nave in 1926. However, it was torn down because of structural damage. In 1980, Rainer Zinsmeister and Giselher Scheffler replaced it with a modern community center. Besides the worship space, there are community rooms, apartments, a kindergarten, and the Diakoniestation in the Leineweberhaus.
Today, the Laurentiuskirche continues to be a vibrant center for the Evangelical Church community of Rohr-Dürrlewang. It stands as a symbol of faith, community, and architectural adaptation. The Posaunenchor rehearses here on Tuesdays. The Kirchenchor rehearses on Wednesdays. Both take place at 7:30 PM.
As you stand here, consider the layers of history beneath your feet. Think about the generations who have gathered here. The Laurentiuskirche is more than just a building. It is a living testament to the enduring power of community and faith.