Old St. Ulrich

Old St. Ulrich, known locally as Alte Kirche St. Ulrich, is a charming Roman Catholic church nestled in the heart of Unterschleißheim, a picturesque town in Bavaria, Germany. This quaint yet historically rich church offers visitors a glimpse into the past and a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

The Historical Tapestry of Old St. Ulrich

The history of Old St. Ulrich is a fascinating tapestry woven with mystery and transformation. The origins of the church date back to around 1518, with the construction of a late Gothic predecessor. However, the exact details of its early history remain somewhat shrouded in mystery. What is known is that the sacristy, located to the south of the choir, is the only surviving element from this original structure.

In the 17th or 18th century, the church underwent significant baroque-style renovations or possibly a complete rebuild of the nave and choir. This transformation imbued the church with the Baroque charm that still captivates visitors today. The church saw further modifications in 1856, including the addition of side chapels and the iconic bell tower. Despite a lightning strike in 1951 that caused a fire in the roof structure, much of the church's interior was preserved, and restoration efforts soon followed. Another comprehensive restoration took place starting in 1976, ensuring that Old St. Ulrich remains a well-preserved historical gem.

Architectural Marvels

Old St. Ulrich's architecture is a delightful blend of historical styles, making it a visual treat for visitors. The church measures approximately 20 meters in length and 8 meters in width, topped with a gable roof. The eastern end of the church features a distinctive three-sided apse, while the western end is adorned with a bell tower. The tower, with its square base and octagonal upper section crowned by an onion dome, is a quintessential element of Bavarian ecclesiastical architecture.

On the north and south sides of the church, you'll find two charming annexes with hipped roofs. The narrower northern annex houses a chapel, while the broader southern annex contains another chapel and the sacristy. Inside, Old St. Ulrich is a single-nave hall church with a flat ceiling. A chancel arch separates the nave from the choir, which is as wide as the nave itself. The space behind the chancel arch is expanded by two side chapels, creating a quasi-transept effect. Beyond this, you'll find the altar area with both a people's altar and a high altar. A door in the southern choir wall leads to the sacristy.

Intricate Interior and Exquisite Furnishings

The interior of Old St. Ulrich is a treasure trove of religious art and craftsmanship. The altars, dating back to around 1893, are particularly noteworthy. The high altar, situated at the eastern end of the choir, features a tall tabernacle flanked by columns. In niches on either side of the tabernacle, you'll find wooden statues of Saints Ulrich and Stephen, dating from the early 16th century. These statues, originally painted, have since been stripped of their paint, revealing the intricate woodwork beneath. The altar is framed by Corinthian pilasters and topped with an entablature, above which rises an altar screen with a round entablature. At the center of this screen, a gilded figure of the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove adds a touch of celestial elegance.

The side altars, located in the chapels on either side of the nave, mirror the design of the high altar. The northern chapel's side altar features a group of statues depicting the Holy Family and a painting of the Coronation of Mary in the upper section. The southern chapel's side altar showcases a bust of Saint Martin of Tours.

Other notable furnishings include a high relief of Saint Valentine from around 1510-1520, a Pietà from the latter half of the 18th century, statues of Saints Sebastian and Florian in the choir, a crucifix on the right nave wall, and a statue of the Virgin Mary with the Christ Child on the left nave wall. The walls of the nave are adorned with a series of Stations of the Cross, and an organ graces the choir loft.

A Tranquil Oasis

Surrounded by a red brick wall, the churchyard of Old St. Ulrich offers a peaceful retreat for contemplation and reflection. The historical charm of the church, combined with its serene setting, makes it a perfect destination for those seeking to connect with the rich cultural and religious heritage of Bavaria.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply looking for a quiet place to unwind, Old St. Ulrich in Unterschleißheim is a must-visit. Its timeless beauty and storied past are sure to leave a lasting impression on all who pass through its doors.