Church of the Holy Cross

The Kreuzkirche Hanover is one of the oldest churches in the city and is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture. Situated in the idyllic Kreuzkirche quarter of the old town, it offers an impressive blend of historical significance, cultural diversity and spiritual depth.
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Building history and architecture

The Kreuzkirche was consecrated in 1333 as the Church of St Spiritus et Crucis. It emerged from a split-off from the market church parish and initially served as the parish of the market church. It was built as a single-nave, Gothic hall church with cross vaults and a 5/8 choir. Over the centuries, the church underwent numerous alterations and extensions.

In 1496/1497, St Anne's Chapel was added to the north side of the nave, which still houses some historical elements today, such as a stone with the coat of arms of Hanover. In the 17th century, a magnificent burial chapel for Johann Duve was added to the south side of the choir. The spire of the church was destroyed in a storm in 1630 and rebuilt as a baroque tower in 1652/1653 on the initiative and financing of Johann Duve.

During one of the major air raids on Hanover during the Second World War, the Kreuzkirche was destroyed down to the walls, roof truss and Duvekapelle chapel. It was rebuilt between 1959 and 1961 by Ernst Witt, but without the original side aisle and the chapel of St Anne. A small sacristy was added to the north side in 1961.

Works of art and furnishings

There are important works of art inside the Kreuzkirche. Particularly noteworthy is the altarpiece by Lucas Cranach the Elder, which was originally created for the castle church and was transferred to the Kreuzkirche after its destruction. The bronze baptismal font from the 15th century is another highlight of the interior.

The church also houses the oldest gravestone in the city of Hanover with the inscription for Thidericus de Rintelen, who died in 1321. Three salvaged brass chandeliers are a reminder of the Aegidienkirche, which was destroyed in the war.

Musical centre

The Kreuzkirche is not only a place of prayer, but also a centre for church music. The acoustics of the room are particularly suitable for choir and instrumental concerts. The organ, which was renovated in 2011, provides an impressive musical experience with its warm sound.

Concerts, readings and discussion forums are regularly held in the church. The events range from classical orchestral concerts to klezmer evenings and modern music performances. The excellent acoustics and special atmosphere make the Kreuzkirche a popular venue.