Lost in the heart of the Ostenviertel, we find ourselves before the Hohes Kreuz. This stone cross stands as a silent witness to centuries of Regensburg’s history. It is more than just a monument. It is a symbol that has lent its name to this entire district.
The Hohes Kreuz dates back to the 17th century. This predates the very school that now bears its name. Imagine this cross standing here for over three centuries. It has seen countless changes in Regensburg.
Look closely at the structure of the Hohes Kreuz. It rises to a height of five meters. The cross itself is crafted from limestone and sandstone. Notice the detailed construction. It features a multi-tiered round base. Above, a slender column tapers upwards to a square capital.
Observe the Latin cross. It is adorned with a fully sculpted Corpus Christi. Take a moment to view the reverse side. You’ll see a Madonna with child resting on a crescent moon. Also, note the coats of arms with diagonal patterns. These are believed to be the crest of the Regensburg diocese. Can you spot the initial R on one of the crossbeams? Also, there is a stonemason’s mark on the column.
Local chronicler Gumpelzhaimer mentioned it as early as 1694. He called it the high cross near St. Niclas facing Barbing. This cross is unique. It is one of the few stone crosses in Germany to give its name to a city district.
The Straubinger Straße where the Hohes Kreuz is located is busy today. But pause and think about its past. It has been a landmark for travelers. It has been a point of reference for locals for generations.
The Grundschule Hohes Kreuz got its name from this historic monument. The school became independent in 1977. It expanded into a full-time school in 2015. It serves students from Candis-Viertel, Ostheim, and Straubinger Straße.
The Hohes Kreuz is more than just an old stone structure. It is a reminder of Regensburg’s rich history. It is a symbol of the city’s enduring spirit. It connects the past with the present. As you leave, consider how this single monument has shaped the identity of this neighborhood. Remember that its legacy continues to inspire and define the community around it.