How did the old parish Church of St John the Baptist get there? Alte St. Johann Baptist stands as a testament to Munich’s rich religious history. It is located in the Au-Haidhausen district. This old church has a story that intertwines with the rise of a newer, grander church.
Let’s delve into the story of Alte St. Johann Baptist. In the early to mid-19th century, Munich experienced a population boom. Both sides of the Isar River saw dramatic growth. The original parish church of Haidhausen became too small. It could no longer accommodate its growing number of parishioners.
A decision was made. A new, larger church was needed. Thus, the New Parish Catholic Church of St. John the Baptist was built. It is also known as Pfarrkirche St. Johann Baptist. This new church was constructed between 1852 and 1874. German architect Matthias Berger designed it in the Gothic Revival style.
The construction of the new St. John’s Church had a direct impact on Alte St. Johann Baptist. The older church served its purpose for many years. However, it was eventually replaced by the newer, more spacious structure. Yet, Alte St. Johann Baptist was not forgotten. It remains a significant historical landmark in the district of Au-Haidhausen.
The new St. John’s Church stands tall and voluminous. It is one of the highest churches in Munich. Its west tower reaches over 90 meters. It is easily visible from Vienna Square. The tower has become an iconic image. It often appears on souvenirs and postcards.
Inside the new St. John’s Church, special features draw attention. There is a neo-Gothic marble altar that rises 16 meters high. Stained glass windows add to the beauty. A new organ was installed and consecrated in 2005. The neo-Gothic style continues with side altars and pews.
Interestingly, the new St. John’s Church remained largely unharmed during World War II. A bomb destroyed a stained-glass window. However, the original stained-glass windows were removed for safekeeping. They were stored in the district of Erding.
In 1967, the main tower received a new gabled roof with a helmet. This addition brought the tower to its current height. Smaller peaks were later added to the sides of the tower.
The bell tower of the new St. John’s Church houses six bells. A small bronze bell from 1869 was joined by five cast steel bells in 1948. On Fridays, the largest bell rings at 3 o’clock. It is a remembrance of Christ’s death. The same bell rings for the Angelus at 12 o’clock every day.
Both Alte St. Johann Baptist and the new St. John’s Church share a connection. They both honor St. John the Baptist. They stand as symbols of faith in the Au-Haidhausen district. The story of Alte St. Johann Baptist is a reminder of Munich’s past. It reflects a time of growth. It also highlights the enduring importance of religious institutions.