Beneath those twin towers, can you feel the history? This is the Taborkirche. It stands proudly in Leipzig’s Kleinzschocher district. The Taborkirche is not just a church. It is a symbol of faith and architectural beauty.
The Taborkirche is easy to spot. It is the only church in Leipzig with a double-tower facade. These towers rise 52 meters high. They dominate the skyline.
Once, an old Slavic cult site existed here. Later, the Kleinzschocher manor stood nearby. Sadly, it was destroyed in World War II. The Taborkirche was built between 1902 and 1904. It replaced the old village church. The old church was too small.
Arwed Rossbach designed the Taborkirche. He was a city planning officer. Sadly, he died the year they laid the foundation stone. Richard Lucht, another architect, oversaw the construction. The Taborkirche was consecrated on March 13, 1904. In 1905, they demolished the old village church.
The Taborkirche’s architecture is neo-Romanesque. It features a three-aisled basilica. It does not have a transept. The two towers face south. They are a defining feature. The main entrance sits in the south gable. Two smaller side portals flank it. In the 1990s, the nave’s roof was renewed. Since 2008, spotlights illuminate the towers at night. In 2017, the east tower underwent extensive renovations. Copper sheeting replaced aluminum plates.
Inside the Taborkirche, the Romanesque style continues. Sandstone furnishings are richly decorated. Look at the columns, the altar, and the baptismal font. Admire the intricate woodwork. See the patronal pews, lectern, and benches.
The church houses a colored coat of arms. It belongs to the Tauchnitz family. They owned Kleinzschocher Castle from 1848. An epitaph from 1683 is also preserved. It commemorates Gebhard von Dieskau. He was a former manor owner. It came from the old village church.
The Taborkirche is more than bricks and mortar. It has a vibrant musical life. A choir of about 80 members sings here. A trombone choir also performs. There is even a singing school for children.
Imagine the sounds. The voices soar. The instruments resonate. This is the heart of the Taborkirche. It is a place where music fills the soul.
The Taborkirche stands on Tanzberg. This hill was once an old Slavic cult site. Now, it supports a house of worship. The Taborkirche represents continuity. It bridges the past and the present. It is a testament to faith and community.
As you leave the Taborkirche, remember its history. Remember its beauty. Think about the music that fills its halls. This is a place of peace. It is a landmark of Leipzig.