Frankfurt’s Ostend holds a captivating secret: the Allerheiligenkirche. This church stands as a testament to faith and artistic vision. The Allerheiligenkirche is more than just a religious building. It is a KunstKulturKirche, a place where art and culture meet.
Let’s journey back to the 19th century. Frankfurt grew beyond its old city walls. The Ostend became a bustling residential area. Yet, it lacked churches. Until 1917, Frankfurt Catholics belonged to a single parish. Their church was the Frankfurt Cathedral. In 1922, the Allerheiligengemeinde or All Saints Parish was established in the Ostend. Its name evokes the Allerheiligentor. This gate led from the Ostend to the city center. Nearby stood the small medieval Allerheiligenkapelle or All Saints Chapel.
The Brothers of Mercy from Montabaur took over pastoral care. Services were initially held in a small chapel. This chapel was unfortunately destroyed during World War II. Martin Weber designed a new church in 1927. However, his design was never realized. After 1948, the community used the rebuilt chapel of the Brothers’ hospital.
In 1952, architects Alois Giefer and Hermann Mäckler received the commission. They were to build a new church on Thüringer Straße. This location was right by the zoo wall. Walther Kampe, Auxiliary Bishop of Limburg, consecrated the Allerheiligenkirche in 1953. The zoo divides the parish. The northern part is residential, where the church is located. The southern part is industrial.
Hans Leistikow designed the large glass window. It features geometric shapes. In November 1954, a jury recognized the building. They were from the German Architects Association. They declared it an exemplary building in Hesse.
In 2014, the parishes were reorganized. Allerheiligen became part of the Dompfarrei St. Bartholomäus. The church remains a vital Kirchort or church location. It fosters an active community life. The Allerheiligenkirche hosts Spanish-language masses every Saturday, Sunday, and Tuesday.
Architecturally, the Allerheiligenkirche is striking. It rises between the zoo and the former Brothers’ hospital. The church has a parabolic floor plan and a campanile. Yellow and white sandstone alternate on the exterior walls. Inside, the walls are simply white. Side rooms with galleries frame the building. A light dome rises above the altar. It is supported by four slender columns. The Allerheiligen reliefs above the main portals are notable. They are the work of Hans Mettel.
The Allerheiligenkirche’s organ has an interesting story. The organ was built in 1955 by Euler. This instrument has 26 registers. That is about 2,000 pipes. The organ is a protected cultural monument. This post-war instrument needs repair. It is being restored in stages. The organ will be expanded into a contemporary instrument.
The Allerheiligenkirche welcomes everyone. It stands as a symbol of faith and artistic expression. Take a moment to appreciate its unique architecture. Reflect on its rich history. Embrace the spirit of community within its walls.