St. Maximilian

Nestled in the heart of Düsseldorf's Carlstadt district, the St. Maximilian Church, often affectionately known as the Maxkirche, stands as a testament to the city's rich ecclesiastical heritage. This late Baroque marvel, which emerged from a dissolved Franciscan monastery in 1804, offers an enchanting journey through time for all who step through its doors.

The History of St. Maximilian

The story of St. Maximilian begins in 1650 when the Franciscans sought permission from Duke Wolfgang Wilhelm of Pfalz-Neuburg to establish a monastery in Düsseldorf. Initially hesitant, the Duke eventually consented, allowing the Franciscans to lay down roots in the city. By 1651, the first friars arrived, and construction of the monastery followed swiftly, culminating in 1662. The adjoining church, completed in 1668, was a simple yet elegant structure.

As the years passed, the original church faced structural challenges due to ground subsidence. This led to the construction of the present-day St. Maximilian between 1735 and 1737, a grand three-naved hall church built from brick. The church was consecrated to St. Anthony of Padua in 1737. However, the winds of change blew again during the secularization of the early 19th century, threatening the existence of the church and monastery. Thanks to the fervent protests of Düsseldorf’s citizens, the church was spared and rededicated to St. Maximilian of Celeia, becoming the city’s second parish church.

Exploring St. Maximilian

Visitors to St. Maximilian are greeted by its striking façade, a harmonious blend of simplicity and grandeur. The three-axis brick façade is adorned with pilasters and a central niche that houses a statue, all crowned by a triangular pediment. The impressive mansard roof, topped with a hexagonal dome and an elegant lantern, adds to the church’s architectural allure.

Inside, the church is a vision in white and grey, with its late Baroque design accentuated by four pairs of Ionic columns. These columns support a series of vaults that create a sense of openness and light. The choir, matching the nave’s width, ends in a rounded apse, while a gallery houses the organ at the western end, inviting music to fill the sacred space.

The Treasures Within

St. Maximilian is home to a wealth of artistic treasures. Among them is a bronze eagle lectern, crafted in 1449 for the Altenberger Dom, which now graces the church with its historical presence. The chancel stalls date back to the church’s predecessor in the 17th century, while the 14 oil paintings by Heinrich Nüttgens form a poignant Stations of the Cross, painted in 1903.

The church also boasts an exquisite pulpit, confessionals, and statues of saints from the mid-18th century. The altar painting, created by Capuchin friar Damian, adds a touch of baroque elegance, framed simply yet beautifully. Modern touches include stained glass windows designed by Jochem Poensgen in 2000, blending the old with the new in a seamless tapestry of art.

The Bells and Organ

The Maxkirche’s bell tower houses five bronze bells, cast in 1954 by the renowned Petit & Gebr. Edelbrock foundry. Their harmonious chimes, known as the Lauda Sion Salvatorem motif, resonate through the district, calling the faithful to prayer.

The church’s organ, originally built by Christian Ludwig König in 1753, was a masterpiece of its time, featuring 39 stops across three manuals and a pedal. Though it underwent several modifications over the centuries, a major restoration in 2008 aimed to revive its former glory. Crafted by the Klais company in Bonn, the new organ incorporates historic materials and boasts mechanical and electronic features, offering a rich auditory experience for both liturgical and concert performances.

Music and Events

St. Maximilian is renowned for its vibrant musical tradition. The church hosts a series of concerts, including the acclaimed Marktmusik series initiated in 1980. These events celebrate both classical choral music and the grandeur of organ and orchestral masses, drawing music lovers from near and far.

In conclusion, St. Maximilian is not just a place of worship; it is a living museum of art, history, and culture. Its walls echo centuries of devotion and artistry, making it an unmissable stop for anyone exploring the rich tapestry of Düsseldorf's heritage. Whether you’re drawn by its history, architecture, or music, the Maxkirche promises an experience that resonates long after you’ve left its hallowed halls.