An old friend from the United States once told me that on her list of “50 things to do before she dies” list (more commonly known today as a “Bucket List”) is to see all the great churches and cathedrals of Europe.
Well, I think that a trip to Germany would certainly help her on her way. And, a trip to the town of Algermissen should be on the itinerary.
It’s a good thing we’re in the 21st century, because back in the 17th century a trip to Algermissen wouldn’t have been a good idea. It was that pesky Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648) that ravaged on, not to mention the plague outbreaks that would have made seeing the town’s outstanding churches a bit impossible.
The oldest of Algermissen’s churches is the Church of St. Martin. It’s a Romanesque church built just shy of 900 years ago in 1117. I would say that’s a great church to see for anyone who appreciates architecture, art, and religious history. Wouldn’t you say?
Two centuries later the Chapel of St. Mauritius was built. This Gothic chapel is an excellent example of medieval engineering and religious devotion.
The third (and last) church within Algermissen is the Baroque church of St. Matthew. It’s ceiling paintings and alter are quite remarkable (and famous throughout the region).
To keep with the religious theme for just one more second, there are crosses, shrines, and statues scattered throughout Algermissen’s seven villages.
But, like my friend who wants to see all these churches, she would want to see more than just that. So, good thing there’s a Heimatmuseum at Neustraße 10 (a local history museum for the non German speakers — oh, I mean readers in this case ;-).
There’s also a War Memorial on Neue Strasse.
But, stop the presses for a minute. I’ve gone on long enough about the pious and devout part of Algermissen. It’s time for a bit of fun. On Rose Monday it’s not uncommon for youngsters to go house to house looking for candy. NO, I swear it’s not Halloween — it’s right before the start of Lent.
In July everyone gets together for the Feast of the Visitation. Oh, never mind, it even seems that Algermissen’s festivals have a religious theme.
I guess I better call my friend and tell her to book the first flight to Germany — then straight on to Algermissen (cause she doesn’t know what she’s missing). ;-)
