Michaelskirche

In the charming town of Waiblingen, nestled in the heart of Baden-Württemberg, Germany, stands the magnificent Michaelskirche. This Gothic evangelical church, often referred to as the Great or Outer Church, is the largest Protestant church in the city. Since around 1950, it has been known by its current name, Michaelskirche. The church's rich history, architectural beauty, and spiritual significance make it a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring the region.

The History of Michaelskirche

The construction of the current church building likely began around 1440 under the direction of Hans von Landau. Although the exact date of the commencement remains uncertain, the choir was completed by 1449/50. However, the construction faced interruptions due to the War of Cities between Count Ulrich V of Württemberg and the Free Imperial City of Esslingen. By 1462, the tower of the church was erected, marking a significant milestone in its construction. The same year saw the establishment of a preaching position in the Nikolauskapelle, which was later transferred to the stone pulpit in Michaelskirche, completed in 1484.

The late 1470s and 1480s witnessed the construction of the three-aisled nave, with the vaults bearing the dates 1487, 1488, and 1490. The church was finally completed around 1490 by Peter von Lahn. In 1990, to commemorate the church's 500th anniversary, an extensive exterior renovation of the nave and tower began, which was completed in 2000.

Predecessor Buildings

During renovations in 1866, 1910, 1938, and 1978, remnants of three predecessor churches dating back to the 7th century were discovered. These findings highlight the long-standing religious significance of the site and add layers of historical intrigue to the already fascinating Michaelskirche.

The Pulpit

Originally located at the central pillar of the southern arcade row in the nave, the pulpit was moved to the southern chancel arch pillar during the 1866/67 church renovation by architect Leins. The pulpit, a centerpiece of the church's transverse design, retains its original console and balustrade adorned with four reliefs. These reliefs, asymmetrically aligned with the former main altar in the choir, depict four church fathers: Augustine with the angel symbol of the evangelist Matthew, Pope Gregory I with the bull symbol of Luke, Ambrose with the lion of Mark and the year 1484, and Jerome with his attribute, the lion, and the eagle of John.

The Tower

The church's tower, a distinctive feature constructed around 1462, stands at an impressive height of 52 meters. The lower part of the tower has a square cross-section, while the bell chamber is octagonal. This unique design element adds to the architectural charm and historical significance of Michaelskirche.

The Organ

The current organ in Michaelskirche has an interesting backstory. It originated from an instrument built by Eberhard Friedrich Walcker for the 1876 World Exhibition in Philadelphia. Unfortunately, Walcker's hopes of selling the organ in America were not realized, and it was brought back to Germany and offered at a reduced price. The Waiblingen church community seized this opportunity, and the organ found its home in Michaelskirche. In 1971, the Weigle company from Leinfelden-Echterdingen replaced the interior while incorporating the historic prospectus, resulting in an organ with 51 registers, three manuals, and a pedal. In 2009, the organ was further modified by Orgelbau Mühleisen, expanding the disposition to 55 registers. The neo-Gothic organ case from 1876, with its pointed arches, quatrefoils, finials, and pinnacles, remains intact, while a simple side prospectus was added for the new Violon 16' register. The organ's play and register actions are electric, and the console is positioned laterally on the gallery. A notable feature is the manual coupling II/III, allowing the second manual work to be coupled to the third manual.

The Bells

The tower houses five bells, each with distinct nominal tones, contributing to the church's auditory charm and spiritual ambiance. These bells play a significant role in the church's daily functions and special ceremonies, adding to the overall experience of visiting Michaelskirche.

In conclusion, Michaelskirche in Waiblingen is not just a place of worship; it is a testament to centuries of architectural evolution, historical events, and spiritual devotion. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to Michaelskirche offers a profound and enriching experience. The church's towering presence, intricate details, and rich history make it a jewel in the heart of Waiblingen, inviting all who visit to step back in time and immerse themselves in its timeless beauty.