Why is this district called Andreasviertel? It’s all because of the magnificent Sankt Andreas church we are standing in front of. Sankt Andreas, a Gothic beauty, graces Andreasstrasse in Erfurt’s historic heart.
The surrounding area draws its name from this very church. Sankt Andreas is now a Lutheran parish church with a rich history. The first mention of Sankt Andreas appeared in documents dating back to 1182. Construction of a new church started in 1210. This construction wasn’t a quick process. It took until around 1370 to complete the church.
Disaster struck in 1416 when a fire ravaged Sankt Andreas. However, the people of Erfurt were resilient. They rebuilt it later in the 15th century. Modifications occurred around 1830, changing some of its features. The church now features a flat ceiling with a pointed barrel.
Above the southern main entrance, a crucifixion relief from around 1370 is emblazoned. This provides a glimpse into the artistic styles of the time. A stone relief dating from 1450 depicts the Lamentation of Christ. This is another striking example of the church’s historical art.
The Reformation reached Erfurt in 1522. Sankt Andreas became a Protestant church, marking a significant shift. In 1604, Sankt Andreas merged with the neighboring congregation of St Maurice’s. Later, in 1973, it joined with St Michael’s Church.
Since 1727, Sankt Andreas has housed a wooden model of the epitaph for Martin Luther. This highlights the church’s connection to the Reformation.
Inside Sankt Andreas, listen for the sounds of the organ. Johann Rudolph Ahle served as cantor using an earlier organ in the 17th century. Johann Georg Kummer from Dachwig built that earlier instrument. The current organ was built between 1987 and 1989. Mitteldeutscher Orgelbau A. Voigt from Bad Liebenwerda constructed it. They reused the historical organ case from 1787. Some pipe material from the previous organ was also incorporated. The organ boasts 25 stops, two manuals, and a pedal. The actions are mechanical.
Today, Sankt Andreas opens its doors to visitors. From Monday to Sunday, you can explore it between 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm. On Sundays, there’s a service at 10:00 am. Personal viewings can be arranged upon request.
Getting here is quite simple. From the station, take tram 3 or 6. Get off at Webergasse Andreaskirche. For those driving, follow the parking guidance system to Domplatz.
Sankt Andreas is more than just a building. It is a testament to Erfurt’s history. It has survived fire, religious shifts, and architectural changes. Sankt Andreas continues to stand as a symbol of faith and resilience. As you leave Sankt Andreas, remember its story. Consider the centuries of worship. Think about the community it has served.