Wondering why the Kreuzkirche looks so modern. Its story is one of destruction and rebirth. This is no ordinary church. The Kreuzkirche in Kassel stands as a testament to resilience.
Let’s step back to the early 20th century. The Oberneustädter Church was bursting at the seams. Its growing congregation needed a new place of worship. In 1902, the church board decided to build a new church. Architects Anton Karst and Hans Fanghänel won the design competition. Their vision was a neo-baroque central building. It featured a shortened Greek cross. A cupola-like tower completed the design. Construction began in 1904. By 1906, the Kreuzkirche opened its doors.
The journal “Die Architektur des XX. Jahrhunderts” praised its modern design. Sophie Henschel gifted a communion jug and chalices. Kaiserin Auguste Viktoria donated a beautiful altar Bible. The Kreuzkirche could host over 1000 worshippers.
The early 20th century was a turbulent time. During World War I, the Kreuzkirche gave up its bells for the war effort. New bells replaced them in 1918. In 1933, the Kreuzkirche became an independent parish.
World War II brought devastation. Services moved to the parish halls to save coal. In 1941, bombs damaged the Kreuzkirche. Windows shattered and the roof shifted. Repairs were made quickly. But in 1942, more bells were taken for war. An air raid in 1942 destroyed the temporary space. It was rebuilt to accommodate 300 people.
Then came the catastrophic air raid of October 22, 1943. Much of Kassel was destroyed. The Kreuzkirche suffered severe damage. The steel roof collapsed. Only the outer walls remained standing. Services moved to the Friedenskirche.
After the war, the community sought to rebuild. But the city had other plans. They considered building a new church elsewhere. Architect Gustav Gsaenger championed rebuilding on the original site. In 1955, a competition was held. Eventually, Gsaenger was commissioned to design a new church.
Construction started in 1957. By 1959, the community hall was ready. The new Kreuzkirche was consecrated. Its tower was completed between 1961 and 1964. Today, only a sandstone relief survives from the original church. It depicts Jesus blessing children. It stands near the entrance.
Gsaenger’s design became a signature element in his later churches. The 55-meter tower is a landmark. The Kreuzkirche hosts services and concerts. Its “World Music” series has been running since 2003. From 2006 to 2013, it housed the youth culture church.
The new Kreuzkirche reused the old foundations. The circular shape was predetermined. Old stones were reused and supplemented. The roof became a copper-covered dome. The tower features a square base. Its upper levels have stone and plaster. The tower clock has a striking red-brown face. The bells are behind wooden louvers. A balustrade and copper roof complete the tower.
Inside, the Kreuzkirche features notable artwork. The original altar featured a mosaic. It depicted Jesus raising the son of a widow. The current altar shows a broken cross. It symbolizes death and resurrection. Another mosaic represents the Last Supper. A vibrant painting depicts an all-encompassing angel.
Today, the Kreuzkirche continues to evolve. It supports a kindergarten. Its choir, the Kantorei, performs regularly. The Kreuzkirche stands as a symbol of Kassel’s enduring spirit.