Adorned with the last harvest’s grapes the statue of Saint Urban stands before us. This is the Sankt Urbans Gedenkstein a testament to Freiburg’s rich winemaking heritage. For centuries Herdern a Freiburg district thrived on viticulture. Saint Urban the patron saint of winemakers was deeply revered here. His feast day the Sunday after May 25th is still celebrated annually.
The current church of St Urban dates back to 1936. It replaced several earlier structures. The first church in Herdern was mentioned as early as 1239. It was a small Romanesque building with a sturdy tower. A painting of this original church is featured in an altarpiece by Johann Caspar Brenzinger. It depicts Saint Urban standing proudly before his church.
This older church was eventually demolished in 1839. A larger replacement was built in its place. That building too became too small. A new church was constructed in 1936. This time though the tower was retained. It’s a visual anchor in Herdern’s landscape. The new church featured artwork by notable artists like Georg Scholz and Manfred A Schmid. They created murals and painted the ceiling.
Even today the annual St Urban’s festival remains a central event in Herdern. The Saint Urban statue plays a prominent role in a festive procession. It’s decorated with fresh grapes symbolizing the bounty of the harvest. The streets are adorned with flowers and yellow and white flags. This tradition underscores the enduring bond between Herdern its patron saint and its vinicultural past. This connection is tangible as you stand before the Sankt Urbans Gedenkstein. The statue is more than just stone. It’s a living memory a symbol of faith and community. It silently bears witness to the many layers of history woven into the fabric of this special place. A place where past and present beautifully intertwine. Reflect on this connection as you continue your journey through Freiburg.