“Striking,” some might say, is the Kreuzkirche’s blend of architectural styles. The Kreuzkirche stands as a testament to early 20th-century church architecture. It is located on the edge of Gোরlitz’s southern district. Specifically, it sits between Arndt and Reuter streets.
The Kreuzkirche’s story began with a nationwide architectural competition in 1911. Many architects participated including Wilhelm Brurein and Heinrich Straumer. Rudolf Bitzan’s plans were chosen by the jury for realization. Gerhard Röhr, an architect from Gোরlitz, oversaw the construction. He masterfully combined modern, Art Nouveau, and Neoclassical elements.
Notice how the Kreuzkirche departs from traditional church designs. Yet, it retains the basic structure of atrium, tower, nave, and altar. The imposing entrance on the west side lies beneath the tower. It spans the paved street. Arcade walkways connect to it seamlessly. The Kreuzkirche forms an architectural unit with the double parsonage and community center to the southeast.
The Kreuzkirche’s powerful square tower features a tall rectangular window. This window is divided by a cross. This gives the Kreuzkirche its name. The upper part of the tower constructed of reinforced concrete houses the bells. A series of pillars and openings mark it. A simple four-sided copper hood completes the structure. Clocks adorn the east and west sides between the six pillars. An observation platform at 38 meters offers stunning views of the city. On a clear day, you can see far into the surrounding area. The tower reaches a total height of 48 meters.
Inside the Kreuzkirche, Bitzan opted for a coffered ceiling and stucco consoles. This emphasizes the clean lines of the pillars and beams. The stucco consoles display names from the Bible, church history, culture, science, and politics. Deep galleries on the north and south sides accentuate the hall-like character. The vestibule or bridal hall features an ellipsoidal layout. It boasts a richly painted ceiling with Art Nouveau motifs. The Kreuzkirche’s original features were preserved during the restoration in the 1980s.
Admire the metalwork on the exterior doors. The stained glass windows display floral and cross ornaments. The electric pendant lamps and baptismal font cover are remarkable examples of craftsmanship.
The Kreuzkirche’s peal consists of three cast steel bells made in 1914 by the Bochumer Verein. The largest bell is the Freudenglocke weighing 4750 kg. It rings in Gis0. The Mahnglocke weighs 3360 kg and sounds in H0. The Friedensglocke weighs 1700 kg and rings in D1.
Today, the Kreuzkirche continues to be a vibrant part of Gোরlitz. It serves as a place of worship and a testament to architectural innovation. Its balanced design seamlessly blends Art Nouveau, Neoclassical, and modern elements. The Kreuzkirche stands as a symbol of unity, history, and artistic vision in Gোরlitz.