Amidst the vibrant cityscape of Hanover, stands the Simeonkirche, a unique architectural gem nestled in the heart of Kirchrode. Did you notice its unusual shape? The Simeonkirche boasts a distinctive pentagonal footprint, a design echoed in the charming pentagonal plaza that lies before it. This modern marvel, completed in 1965, replaced a 19th-century cottage once used as a hospice. The architect, Hanns Hoffmann, envisioned a space filled with natural light. He achieved this by incorporating glass into the upper sections of the walls and fully glazing the corners. This design allows daylight to flood the interior from all directions. Only the corner opposite the entrance remains unglazed, preventing glare for the congregation. The church’s namesake, the prophet Simeon, is prominently featured both inside and out. Look closely at the church doors, crafted by sculptor Siegfried Zimmermann. You’ll find Simeon depicted in the upper left corner, entering Jerusalem. When the doors are closed, this scene connects with the portrayal of Jesus on the right door. The lower panels illustrate acts of Christian service: a visit to the sick on the left and the calming of a storm on the right, symbolizing the alleviation of suffering and fear. Inside, a vibrant tapestry designed by Helge Michael Breig and crafted by the Henriettenstiftung’s parament workshop dominates the space. This tapestry also frames a bronze crucifix, also designed by Zimmermann. The Simeonkirche isn’t just a visual delight, it’s also a place of worship with a rich history. The church houses an organ built by the local firm Schmidt & Thiemann. The four bells, cast by Friedrich Wilhelm Schilling in Heidelberg, ring out in the harmonious tones of a1 – d2 – e2 – g2. The Simeonkirche stands as a testament to modern architecture and community spirit within Hanover’s historic tapestry.
St. Maria Angelica
Have you ever heard of a church named after a French Cistercian nun? Here at St. Maria Angelica in Hanover,