Imagine a dog barking. In 1819, a schoolmaster’s dog foiled thieves at Kirche zu Köhra. Today, we explore this church’s long history.
Kirche zu Köhra stands as a testament to time. It blends Romanesque, Baroque, and Historicist styles. Köhra itself is part of Belgershain. It lies southeast of Leipzig.
The oldest part of Kirche zu Köhra is likely its altar area. This dates back to the 13th century. The first written record of the Kirche zu Köhra is from 1580. This was during a visitation.
Major repairs and expansion happened in 1768. The “small and gloomy church” was extended westward. It gained a new altar, pulpit, and confessional. The cost was 1058 talers, 3 groschen, and 3 pfennigs. The renovated Kirche zu Köhra was dedicated on November 22, 1768.
In 1770, a new organ and baptismal font were installed. But disaster struck in 1819. Thieves broke in. They stole items but a schoolmaster’s dog scared them off.
More renovations occurred in 1888. Kirche zu Köhra received a new organ, floor, windows, and doors. The exterior was plastered. An iron gate was added to the cemetery. Pfarrer Lutz rededicated the Kirche zu Köhra on October 28, 1888.
Extensive work continued in 1908. The pulpit, ceiling, and tower stairs were renewed. The tower’s top was rebuilt. A higher decorated vaulted ceiling replaced the wooden one. The organ and pews were repaired. Electric lights, a clock, heating, and new bells were installed. The new bells were consecrated on November 10, 1908. Sup. Dr. Albert and Pfarrer Lutz rededicated the Kirche zu Köhra on December 10, 1908. A feast followed.
The older bells were melted down in World War II. New bells were cast in 1950. The Kirche zu Köhra became a sister church to Belgershain in 1949. This was planned since 1931.
Major renovations took place in 1990. These included the tower, roof, facade, and interior. The total cost was 330,000 DM. Community members contributed 60,000 DM in labor. The church tower roof was repaired in 2001.
Today, the Kirche zu Köhra stands on the cemetery. The Grüne Ring Leipzig hiking trail passes through Köhra. The Kirche zu Köhra has seen many changes. It started as a small Romanesque church. It became a blend of styles. It is a testament to the village’s history. Its story includes dedication and a faithful dog.