Picture this a small baroque church nestled in Augsburg’s heart. This is St Margareth a former Dominican convent church. Its history is rich and layered like the onion dome crowning its roof.
St Margareth’s story begins in the 13th century. A convent was founded. Legend says Domkanoniker Wolfhard von Roth a later Bishop of Augsburg himself paid for the nuns’ admittance to the Dominican order. He built their initial convent in 1262. Unfortunately a Gothic predecessor church was destroyed in 1333.
The church wasn’t always here in this form. It was rebuilt multiple times. The current structure dates to 1720. It’s a result of several alterations based on earlier plans from 1618-1620. The convent too suffered from these changes. Part of the convent was demolished in 1915. This was due to a new street being built.
But even destruction couldn’t erase St Margareth’s presence. Notice the beautiful façade. It was restored in 2010. The roof was also renewed at this time. The interior is just as stunning. Look at the ceiling fresco. Painted in 1803 by Johann Joseph Anton Huber it depicts the descent of the Holy Spirit. The Evangelists are depicted in the corners.
Admire the high altar painting. Created by Thomas Scheffler in 1740 it shows Mary with Saint Margarethe. Saints Cosmas and Damian are also portrayed. The pulpit from 1744 is topped by an orb and an eagle. In the sacristy are fragments of a sandstone Madonna from around 1330 and a Jesus figure from about 1490. These are silent witnesses to centuries of faith and devotion.
St Margareth isn’t just a building. It’s a testament to resilience. It’s a story of destruction and rebirth. A symbol of faith enduring through the ages. This small church stands proudly in Augsburg’s historical fabric. It’s a reminder of the convent and the women who shaped its past. So take a moment to appreciate the beautiful St Margareth.