Christ Church

The Christuskirche in Hanover's Nordstadt district is an outstanding example of neo-Gothic church architecture and today serves as an international centre for choral music. Originally built between 1859 and 1864 as a residential church for King George V of Hanover according to the plans of architect Conrad Wilhelm Hase, it was only used as such once, on the day of its consecration. Today, the church is an important cultural centre.

Architectural features

Christuskirche impresses with its neo-Gothic design with a 70 metre high tower integrated into the central nave - an architectural feature that was due to the limited east-west extension of the building site. The west façade is designed in the style of Freiburg and Strasbourg Minster and is characterised by filigree sandstone ornamentation, pinnacles and gargoyles. Inside the church is an organ with 55 stops, which was built in 1958 by master organ builder Hillebrand.

History and reconstruction

Christuskirche was badly damaged during the Second World War. Reconstruction began in 1951 and a church service was held again as early as 1953. In 2013, the church was extensively renovated and converted into the International Children's and Youth Choir Centre. The old pews were removed and replaced by a rising rehearsal room. The Hillebrand organ was removed and stored, and the vaulted ceiling was renovated and decorated with new stars.

Current utilisation

Today, the Christuskirche is home to the International Choir Centre Hanover and the Hanover Girls' Choir. The church serves as a rehearsal and performance venue for choirs from all over the world and at the same time remains a place for church services and cultural events.