Behold the Evangelische Kirche Haarzopf a testament to architectural innovation. This church is not just a place of worship. It is a journey through time and artistic expression.
Evangelische Kirche Haarzopf stands as a beacon of faith and history in Essen. It is located in the Haarzopf district. Its story began in the early 20th century. The rising population of workers fueled the need for a dedicated place of worship.
Initially, services were held in a schoolroom. The Evangelische Gemeinde Kettwig oversaw the area. As the community grew, so did the desire for independence. In 1910, Haarzopf separated from Kettwig. This led to the commission of plans for a new church and parsonage.
Max Benirschke, a professor from the Du00fcsseldorf Art Academy, designed the Evangelische Kirche Haarzopf. His design was selected after revisions. Construction commenced in 1912 and concluded with its inauguration on June 15, 1913. Benirschke’s creation was more than a building. It was a comprehensive work of art. It embodied Christian cosmic truths, influenced by Rudolf Steiner’s anthroposophy. The exterior was avant-garde with bold colors.
Step inside the Evangelische Kirche Haarzopf. Notice the interior is defined by three primary colors. A dark red vestibule welcomes you. The organ gallery is set in yellow. It faces the receding, barrel-vaulted choir. The almost square hall has a central round window. It features a green-blue Star of David. Above the choir, another round window displays the cross. These symbols represent the Old and New Testaments. Red symbolizes earthly life and blue represents the celestial sphere.
During World War II in 1944, the Evangelische Kirche Haarzopf suffered significant damage. The post-war restoration brought some changes. However, efforts were made to restore its original colors. In the 1980s, the church was repainted to revive its original appearance. Imperfect latex paints led to color deviations.
By 2013, as the church approached its 100th anniversary, a thorough restoration was planned. The aim was to restore the original colors using mineral paints. Structural issues were discovered during this time. Cracks in the masonry led to its closure due to the risk of collapse. The wooden laminated girders supporting the vaulted ceiling were decaying. The side walls were bulging outwards. After a year of deliberation, the community decided on a comprehensive renovation. Demolition was not an option. It would have required building a new chapel for the cemetery. Private donations of 160,000 euros were collected for the renovation.
The Evangelische Kirche Haarzopf reopened in March 2017. A 1.2 million euro renovation was completed in June 2017. Rededication services took place on July 1st and 2nd. The church also features unique elements. The pulpit is located on the side where the choir and community space meet. It is covered by an oversized soundboard. The church lacks a central entrance. The main entrance is on the side. A central aisle leads to the altar in the choir. The windows are made of antique glass and are set in lead. They are original designs by Max Benirschke. The organ built in 1912/1913 by Paul Faust. It is located in a high blue arch on the singers’ gallery.
Today, the Evangelische Kirche Haarzopf stands as a symbol of resilience and artistic vision. It is a place where history, art, and faith converge. It continues to serve its community. The Evangelische Kirche Haarzopf remains a testament to the enduring power of architectural and spiritual heritage.