Envision this: A humble chapel transformed into a proud city church. That is the story of Stadtkirche St. Germanus. This church stands in Untertürkheim a district of Stuttgart. It bears the name of Germanus of Auxerre.
Let’s delve into the Stadtkirche St. Germanus’s past. It began as an 11th-century chapel. Intriguingly, it was built over Roman pottery remains. You can still see these remnants in the church tower. The chapel was expanded in 1493. A long nave was added extending southward from the tower.
Disaster struck during the Thirty Years’ War. The Stadtkirche St. Germanus was destroyed. However, it rose again between 1654 and 1656. The lower levels of the medieval tower were kept. An octagonal story was added to the tower. This new section housed the clock and bells. A unique bell-shaped roof topped with a lantern completed the tower.
Inside the Stadtkirche St. Germanus, a flat ceiling covers the nave. This interior also features notable murals. A significant addition came in 1970. HAP Grieshaber created a stunning artwork. It is a series of images depicting the legend of Joseph of Nazareth. In 1972, the Stadtkirche St. Germanus acquired a new organ. It was built by Orgelbau Vleugels.
Interestingly, the origin of the name “St. Germanus” remains unclear. In 1478, Untertürkheim experienced abundant harvests. This prosperity inspired the residents. They decided to build a new church as a lasting offering. The Stadtkirche St. Germanus became a symbol of their gratitude. With this new church, Untertürkheim likely became an independent parish.
The Reformation swept through the land in 1535. Just a year later, Balthasar Wolleb became the first Protestant pastor. The 17th century brought more turmoil. In 1634, Swedish regiments invaded. The Stadtkirche St. Germanus and 280 other buildings were burned. Reconstruction began in 1642, but progress was slow.
A unique seating arrangement was implemented in 1803. Men’s seats cost 1 Gulden 30 Kreuzer. Women’s seats were cheaper at only 1 Gulden. Electrical lighting was installed in 1905. The organ also received an electric motor. Carl Schmauk created a large painting called “Untertürkheim Mountain Sermon” in 1932. It adorned the church’s interior until World War II.
In 1969, a decision was made to divide the church’s interior. This created a community room. A large sliding wall was needed. HAP Grieshaber was commissioned to design this wall. He proposed “The Legend of Joseph.” Grieshaber created linoleum prints. These were colored with pastel chalk on Japanese paper. The prints were then mounted on aluminum panels. The Josefswand became a gift to the Stadtkirche St. Germanus.
The roof and tower of the Stadtkirche St. Germanus required extensive renovation. The roof tiles had deteriorated over time. The church tower was completed in 1493. The baroque tower dome was added in 1746. The Stadtkirche St. Germanus stands as a testament to faith. It has endured war destruction and renewal. It continues to be a landmark in Untertürkheim.