Considered the earliest Baroque church in Franconia, the Karmelitenkirche stands as a testament to Würzburg’s rich religious and architectural history. This church is dedicated to Saint Joseph and Maria Magdalena. But it is also known locally as Reuererkirche.
Its story began long before its current Baroque facade. Let’s go back to the 13th century. A cloister of the Reuerinnen order dedicated to Maria Magdalena stood here from 1255. This cloister was torn down in 1661 to make way for the Karmelitenkirche. Yet, the popular name Reuererkirche remains to this day.
The cornerstone for the Karmelitenkirche was laid on March 19, 1662. The church was designed by Antonio Petrini. Johann Melchior Söllner, the auxiliary bishop, presided over the ceremony. Prince-Bishop Johann Philipp von Schönborn was also present. Consecration followed on March 19, 1669. Auxiliary Bishop Stephan Weinberger officiated on Josefstag.
The facade is a captivating blend of ocher and white. It showcases the architectural style of the period. Pilasters adorn the structure. They are Doric on the ground floor. They transition to Ionic on the first floor. The gable bears the inscription ANNO DOMINI MDCLXVIII. This refers to the year the facade was completed. Above the gable sits the Carmelite order’s coat of arms.
Sculptures occupy the round-arched niches. To the left stands the ecstasy of Saint Teresa of Avila. To the right is Saint John of the Cross. He was proclaimed a Doctor of the Church in 1926.
The facade bears an inscription. It praises Prince Johann Philipp. It also praises the citizens for their support. It states the building is dedicated to God. It honors Saints Joseph and Maria Magdalena.
Inside, the church reflects the Carmelite order’s austerity. The interior design exudes simplicity. This clarity was restored between 1946 and 1949. The church is a wall-pillar basilica. Pillars support the walls and vaults. These pillars are inside the church creating side chapels connected by passageways.
During the bombing of Würzburg on March 16, 1945, the Karmelitenkirche suffered extensive damage. The vaults were destroyed. The furnishings were almost completely burned. However, the crypt offered refuge to about 500 Würzburg citizens during the attacks. Reconstruction followed. It was completed by 1950. From 1977, Paul Nagel began redesigning the interior of the Karmelitenkirche.
Today, the Karmelitenkirche is not only a place of worship. It is a protected historical monument. Its listing number is D-6-63-000-516. The church tower houses three bells. They produce gis’, h’, and cis” notes. Karl Czudnochowsky cast Glocke 1 and 3 in Erding in 1957. Spannagl created Glocke 2 in Regensburg in 1879.
The Karmelitenkirche, with its storied past and artistic treasures, remains a significant landmark in Würzburg. It embodies faith and resilience. It continues to inspire visitors and locals alike.