A circular haven of peace stands before you. This is the Heiligkreuzkirche in Mainz a testament to modern church architecture. Built in the 1950s it replaced a much older church. That older church was part of the Heiligkreuzstift a significant Mainz institution. The original Heiligkreuzstift dated back to the early 14th century. Sadly it was destroyed in 1793 during a siege. Its ruins were finally demolished in 1799.
The current Heiligkreuzkirche isn’t just a building. It’s a story of resilience and remembrance. Its construction followed the devastation of World War II. The Catholic parish of Heilig Kreuz was established in 1938. However plans for a new church were delayed by the war. Construction finally began in the early 1950s.
The Heiligkreuzkirche’s design is striking. Architect Richard Jörg and Bernhard Schmitz created a circular structure. It’s Germany’s first 20th-century Catholic central-plan church. The round shape symbolizes community and unity. The large copper-covered flat dome is its most striking feature. The interior is equally impressive. The altar is the central point raised on five steps. It’s surrounded by a three-tiered glass-brick dome. This dome lets light flood the altar a masterful use of light.
The church’s art is equally captivating. Twelve angels adorn the exterior metal plates symbolizing the New Jerusalem. Mosaics depicting Old Testament scenes grace the entrance. The work of Peter Paul Etz. The ceiling’s original coloring by Paul Meyer-Speer was restored in 2005. A Madonna statue by Hermann Volz stands on a pillar. A striking crucifix hangs above the altar. It was created by Benedictine Sister Lioba Munz of Fulda.
The Heiligkreuzkirche in Mainz stands as a symbol of faith. It’s a remarkable example of post-war architecture. It honors the history of its predecessor. It’s a place of worship. It also serves as a reminder of the past. But most of all it is a vibrant place of faith. A place where the community gathers.