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Cologne Architecture News

North Rhine-Westphalia architectural developments, Northwest Germany built environment

post updated 23 September 2024

Johannes XXIII church, district of Lindenthal in Cologne
Date built: 1968
architect Hans Schilling ; sculptor Josef Rikus

photos © Daniel Lomholt-Welch

The Johannes XXIII Church in Cologne, Germany, is an architectural masterpiece designed by the renowned architect Hans Schilling. Completed in 1968, the church is a striking example of post-war modernist architecture, reflecting the progressive spirit of the Second Vatican Council. Dedicated to Pope John XXIII, who initiated the Council, the church embodies the Catholic Church’s efforts to embrace modernity while maintaining spiritual traditions.

Architecturally, the church is known for its minimalist, brutalist style, characterized by the use of raw concrete and simple geometric forms. Its most distinctive feature is the dramatic, sweeping roof that rises asymmetrically over the building, giving the structure a dynamic and sculptural appearance. The roof not only serves as a striking visual element but also enhances the acoustics inside the church, creating a serene, meditative atmosphere.

The interior of Johannes XXIII Church is equally impressive. Schilling’s design focuses on creating a sense of openness and inclusivity, aligning with the ideals of the Second Vatican Council. The altar, placed centrally in the church, symbolizes the unity of the congregation, with the seating arranged around it in a semi-circular fashion. This layout encourages active participation in the liturgy, breaking from the traditional hierarchical arrangement of older church designs.

Natural light plays a significant role in the church’s atmosphere. The large windows and strategically placed openings allow light to pour into the space, emphasizing the minimalist interior and creating a sense of divine presence. The concrete walls, though stark, are softened by the interplay of light and shadow, adding a spiritual dimension to the modernist design.

Johannes XXIII Church remains a symbol of modern ecclesiastical architecture and a reflection of the Catholic Church’s engagement with contemporary culture, making it an important cultural and spiritual landmark in Cologne.

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14 Mar 2022
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photo © Daniel Lomholt-Welch
New photos added of this architectural design by architect Gottfried Böhm: Maria, Königin des Friedens is a pilgrimage church and parish. The ‘Mariendom’, or ‘Wallfahrtsdom’, is the second largest church in the Diocese of Cologne, after Cologne Cathedral. The concrete structure with an irregular roof and an interior like a forum became the architect’s signature building, and is regarded as one of the important “spatial creations” in 20th-century architecture.

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photo : Stefan Bunkofer
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14 Sep 2018
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photograph : David Franck
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1 Mar 2017
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render : isochrom
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image Courtesy architecture office
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image Courtesy architecture office
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photo : Michael Jungblut, Berlin
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