St. Cyriac Church

St. Cyriac Church, known locally as St. Cyriakus, stands as a beacon of spiritual and architectural heritage in Bottrop, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. This Roman Catholic parish church, with its striking neo-Gothic design, has been a cornerstone of the community for centuries, embodying a rich tapestry of history, faith, and artistry.

A Historical Tapestry

The origins of St. Cyriac Church date back to 1155 when it was established as a filial church of St. Pankratius in Oberhausen-Osterfeld, under the auspices of the Deutz Abbey. Initially, the church was a modest round chapel, which was later expanded in 1425 to include a nave, tower, and choir. This transformation marked the beginning of its evolution into a parish church, a status it attained in the 17th century.

The 19th century brought significant changes to St. Cyriac Church. The original nave and tower were demolished to make way for a new structure designed by the renowned architect Emil von Manger. The current church, constructed between 1859 and 1862, showcases a neo-Gothic hall church design with a five-bay nave and a recessed 5/8 choir. The brick façade, adorned with stone detailing, stretches 43.5 meters in length and 22 meters in width, with a roof ridge that reaches 25 meters and a tower that soars 57 meters high.

Architectural Marvels

Under the guidance of Pastor Karl Englert, a building committee was formed in 1850 to raise funds for the new church. The resulting structure is a testament to the neo-Gothic style, characterized by its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. The church's design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also structurally sound, a necessity given the subsidence issues that plagued the region due to mining activities.

From 1904 to 1964, St. Cyriac Church experienced significant subsidence, sinking up to seven meters. This caused severe damage to the building, compromising its safety. In 1966, an innovative solution was implemented: the church's vault was reinforced with a seven-centimeter-thick layer of steel-reinforced concrete using the Torkret-blasting method. This not only stabilized the structure but also ensured its longevity for future generations.

Artistic Treasures

Inside St. Cyriac Church, visitors are greeted by an array of artistic treasures that span centuries. The church's altar retable, dating back to the early 16th century, is a masterpiece of woodcarving, featuring seven Passion scenes and a central depiction of Calvary. This intricate piece was acquired in 1863 and meticulously restored in 1966/67 to reveal its original splendor.

Other notable artworks include a 15th-century Pietà carved from oak, a Madonna on the globe from around 1500, and a statue of St. Cyriac from circa 1730. The church also houses a Vesperbild from the 15th century, further enriching its collection of sacred art.

The Majestic Organ

Music plays a vital role in the life of St. Cyriac Church, and its organ, crafted by the Franz Breil company in 1970, is a testament to this tradition. The organ boasts 39 sounding registers (2,843 pipes) across three manual works and a pedal, with a four-manual console designed to control both the main organ and a choir organ located at the high altar. Although the connection between the two organs has yet to be completed, the instrument's grandeur and versatility are undeniable.

The Resonant Bells

The church's bell tower houses four bells cast by the Feldmann & Marschel foundry in Münster in 1956. These bells, each with its unique tone and inscription, replace those destroyed during the wars of 1917 and 1941. The largest, the Christ the King Bell, measures 1.60 meters in diameter and weighs 2.5 tons, resonating with a deep C' note. The Cyriac Bell, with its poignant inscription, commemorates the church's resilience and renewal.

A Community Anchor

St. Cyriac Church is more than just a historic building; it is a living, breathing part of the Bottrop community. In 2007, a restructuring of parishes in old Bottrop resulted in the formation of the Propsteipfarrei St. Cyriakus, encompassing several local congregations and serving approximately 20,000 Catholics. The church continues to host regular services, community events, and cultural activities, ensuring its place at the heart of the city's spiritual and social life.

In conclusion, St. Cyriac Church is a remarkable blend of history, architecture, and faith. Its neo-Gothic splendor, rich artistic heritage, and enduring community presence make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Bottrop. Whether you're drawn by its historical significance, architectural beauty, or spiritual atmosphere, St. Cyriac Church promises an enriching and inspiring experience.