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Citykirche am Jesuitenplatz: A Modern Sanctuary with a Rich Past

Discover the Citykirche am Jesuitenplatz in Koblenz: a captivating blend of modern architecture and baroque history in the heart of the Old Town, a testament to the city's enduring spirit.

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The Citykirche am Jesuitenplatz, formerly the Jesuit Church of St. John the Baptist, stands as a testament to Koblenz's resilience and architectural evolution. Located on the charming Jesuitenplatz in the heart of the Altstadt (Old Town), this Catholic church boasts a fascinating history intertwined with the city's religious and political shifts. Originally a 13th-century Cistercian convent, the site was later taken over by the Jesuits in 1580 during the Counter-Reformation. The original church was largely destroyed during WWII and rebuilt in a modern style in the late 1950s, incorporating salvaged elements like the baroque sacristy and west portal. Today, the Citykirche serves as a place of worship and a striking example of postwar architecture, coexisting harmoniously with the square's baroque buildings and the adjacent Old Town Hall.

A brief summary to Citykirche am Jesuitenplatz

Local tips

  • Visit during Advent to see the Rathaus (Old Town Hall) transformed into a giant Advent calendar, illuminating Jesuitenplatz with festive cheer.
  • Take a moment to appreciate the contrast between the church's modern architecture and the baroque buildings surrounding Jesuitenplatz.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through Koblenz's Altstadt (Old Town) to explore other nearby attractions like the Deutsches Eck and Electoral Palace.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Citykirche is centrally located on Jesuitenplatz in Koblenz's Altstadt and is easily accessible on foot from most major points in the Old Town. From the Forum Confluentes or Zentralplatz, walk east along Gymnasialstraße, which leads directly to Jesuitenplatz. From Görresplatz, walk through Firmungstraße towards the Rathaus; the Citykirche is located adjacent to the Rathaus on Jesuitenplatz. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines stop near Jesuitenplatz. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information. From Koblenz Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take a bus to Koblenz Stadtmitte/Zentralplatz and walk for approximately 5 minutes. A single bus fare within Koblenz city area costs approximately €2.60. Consider purchasing a Koblenz Card for €9.80, which provides 24 hours of free public transport within the city and discounts on other attractions.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Koblenz. A short taxi ride from Koblenz Hauptbahnhof to Jesuitenplatz will cost approximately €8-€12, depending on traffic. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Citykirche am Jesuitenplatz

The Citykirche am Jesuitenplatz, originally dedicated to St. John the Baptist, holds a significant place in Koblenz's history and architectural landscape. Situated on Jesuitenplatz, a square named after the Jesuit order, the church stands adjacent to the former Jesuit college, now the Rathaus (Old Town Hall). The story of the Citykirche begins in the 13th century when a Cistercian convent, St. Maria in der Lehr, was established on the site. The convent included a Gothic church. However, in 1580, Archbishop Jakob von Eltz of Trier forcibly relocated the nuns to Niederwerth Island to make way for the Jesuits. The Archbishop aimed to bolster the Counter-Reformation in his diocese by establishing a Jesuit presence in Koblenz. The Jesuits, known for their focus on education, social welfare, and missionary work, were seen as ideal agents for this purpose. Initially, the Jesuits occupied the existing Cistercian buildings. However, in the early 17th century, they demolished most of the Gothic church, retaining only the choir, and constructed a new church between 1613 and 1617, modeled after the Petrikirche in Münster. The adjacent college and monastery buildings were rebuilt between 1588 and 1701. Since 1895, these buildings have housed the Koblenz Town Hall. Following the dissolution of the Jesuit order in 1773, the church became a branch of St. Kastor. However, services were often conducted by former Jesuits who taught at the Kurfürstliches Gymnasium St. Johann Baptist. The Jesuits returned to Koblenz in 1852 and reclaimed the church and part of the former monastery, but they were forced to leave again in 1872 during the Kulturkampf. They were not able to resettle until 1918. During the air raids on Koblenz in 1944, the Jesuitenkirche was largely destroyed. After much debate, the partially reconstructable ruins were demolished in 1956, and a new church was built between 1958 and 1959 according to plans by Gottfried Böhm. The baroque sacristy with its original furnishings and the west facade were preserved. While the destruction and subsequent demolition of the baroque building are often regretted today, the new church is an important monument of postwar architecture. The modern Citykirche features a contemporary design that contrasts with the baroque architecture of the surrounding Jesuitenplatz. The interior is bright and airy, with clean lines and minimalist decor. Stained glass windows add splashes of color, and the preserved baroque sacristy offers a glimpse into the church's past. Jesuitenplatz itself is a charming square surrounded by beautifully restored townhouses. In the center of the square stands a monument to Johannes Müller, a Koblenz physiologist and anatomist, dating back to 1899. The square is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with cafes and restaurants offering outdoor seating in the summer months. Today, the Citykirche serves not only as a place of worship but also as a venue for concerts, exhibitions, and other cultural events. Its central location and historical significance make it a must-see attraction for visitors to Koblenz. The church's modern architecture and preserved baroque elements create a unique blend of old and new, reflecting the city's dynamic history. Visiting the Citykirche offers a chance to reflect on Koblenz's past and appreciate its present. Whether you are interested in architecture, history, or religion, the Citykirche am Jesuitenplatz is sure to leave a lasting impression. Take some time to explore the church's interior, admire its stained glass windows, and soak in the atmosphere of this spiritual gem in the heart of Koblenz's Old Town. Afterwards, relax in one of the cafes on Jesuitenplatz and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this historic square. The Citykirche is easily accessible on foot from most parts of Koblenz's Old Town. It is located near other popular attractions such as the Deutsches Eck, the Electoral Palace, and the Forum Confluentes. Public transportation is also readily available, with bus stops located nearby. While visiting the Citykirche, be sure to take a stroll around Jesuitenplatz and admire the surrounding baroque buildings. The square is particularly beautiful during the Christmas season when the windows of the Old Town Hall are transformed into a giant Advent calendar. The Citykirche am Jesuitenplatz is a testament to Koblenz's enduring spirit and its ability to blend the old with the new. Its rich history, unique architecture, and central location make it a must-see destination for any visitor to this historic city. Whether you are seeking a place of worship, a cultural experience, or simply a moment of peace and reflection, the Citykirche is sure to provide a memorable experience.

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