Marvel at the intricate woodcarvings that decorate the 16th-century altar of this church set in the heart of Bielefeld’s Old Town.
The Nicolai Church (Altstädter Nicolaikirche) is one of the many architectural masterpieces in Bielefeld’s atmospheric historic center. The church has played an integral role in the city’s ecclesiastical activities since being established by Bishop Bernhard of Paderborn in 1236. Visit Nicolai Church to admire its magnificent wooden altar, experience its spiritual tranquility, listen to the daily carillon and relax on the lawns of a tree-shaded garden.
Take time to inspect the exterior, which features a predominance of the Gothic architectural style. The original structure was destroyed by British bomb raids during World War II and then reconstructed between 1954 and 1963. Above the main entrance are bronze reliefs that depict Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem and the Ecce Homo. Rising above here is a 267-feet (81-meter) tall bell tower home to a 36-bell working carillon.
Step inside and head straight to the altar, designed in the 1500s at the Guild of St. Luke workshops in Antwerp. Study more than 250 carved figures that portray popular characters and scenes from the bible. Other highlights are the baptismal font, whose chalice is believed to be the church’s oldest original relic, and a stained-glass rose window by Karl Muggly. Go to the small museum to see antique figurines, models of the post-World War II reconstruction and relics recovered from the bomb damage.
The church garden, at the rear of the building, is a great place to sit and listen to the daily chimes of the carillon. It plays four times a day. Within the garden is the Leineweber Monument by the Tyrolean sculptor Hans Perathoner. Featuring a bronze statue of a linen weaver standing over a fountain, it honors the importance of the linen industry to the city’s economy.
It’s easy to reach the church by foot from the Old Town district. Nearby attractions include the Old Market Square, Old Town Hall and Theater Bielefeld.
Nicolai Church is open daily. Make inquiries about concerts held here at the tourist information center situated on Niederwall street.
