Sankt Elisabeth

Nestled between Innocentiapark and Hochallee stands Sankt Elisabeth. This unassuming church holds a captivating story. Sankt Elisabeth isn’t your typical grand church. It blends into the surrounding buildings. Its facade features a “reserved expressionistic” decor. It subtly tells the legend of the miracle of roses associated with Saint Elizabeth of Thuringia. Sankt Elisabeth was built in 1926. The architects were Heinrich Renard and Jos. van Geisten. The church and its neighboring community center became protected landmarks in 2001. Inside Sankt Elisabeth, a unique triptych hangs above the altar. This monochrome, semi-sculptural piece depicts scenes of the crucifixion. The church also houses three paintings by Gebhard Fugel. One, originally above the high altar, is now situated to the left. Two others portray Mary after the Revelation and St. Joseph, the church’s patron saint. Music lovers will appreciate Sankt Elisabeth’s renowned Beckerath organ, “Opus 1”. Originally built in 1951, it underwent a major renovation in 2020. Now, it boasts a unique double console. One side is traditional with two manuals. The other is modern with four. Sankt Elisabeth isn’t just a church; it’s a vibrant hub. It shares its space with two other congregations. The Hamburg English Speaking Catholic Community and the Communidad católica en idioma español both hold services here. This makes Sankt Elisabeth a truly international place of worship. The church has a long-standing partnership with the Benebikira Sisters in Rwanda. This connection is celebrated annually with the Rwanda Bazaar, a major event for the community. Sankt Elisabeth is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a place of welcome, international fellowship, and artistic beauty.