Christuskirche
Khomas
Christuskirche, located on a prominent hill in Windhoek, Namibia, is a neo-Romanesque Lutheran church completed in 1910. Designed by government architect Redecker, its construction began in 1907 and was notable for using local sandstone transported by a small railway line. The church's tower rises 42 meters, topped with a Gothic spire, making it visible from a distance. Its three bronze bells bear inscriptions symbolizing glory, peace, and goodwill. The stained glass windows were donated by German Emperor Kaiser Wilhelm, adding historical significance. Inside, a bronze plaque commemorates German soldiers and civilians who died during the Nama and Herero uprisings. The church was consecrated on October 16, 1910, and underwent renovation between 1967 and 1972, including replacing the original iron roof with tiles. Services are conducted in German, reflecting the church's heritage. Christuskirche stands as a monument of peace and a key cultural landmark in Windhoek, attracting visitors interested in history, architecture, and Namibian heritage.
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Tip: Visitors should consider touring Christuskirche during the morning hours when services are held in German at 10:00 AM. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended to gain deeper insight into the church's history and architecture. The best time to visit is during the dry season for comfortable weather and clear views from the hilltop location. Discounts or special arrangements may be available for groups or educational visits; contacting the church directly can provide current information.
Interesting facts
- •Christuskirche's three bronze bells bear inscriptions translating to 'Glory to God in the highest,' 'Peace on earth,' and 'Goodwill towards men.'
- •The stained glass windows were donated by German Emperor Kaiser Wilhelm.
- •The original altarpiece was a copy of Rubens' 'Resurrection of Lazarus,' painted by Berlin artist Clara Berkowski, but was moved to the gallery after the original was destroyed in Berlin during World War II.
- •Local sandstone mined near the present Avis dam was the only local material used, transported by a small railway built specifically for the construction.
- •The church's tower stands 42 meters tall and is topped with a Gothic spire despite the overall neo-Romanesque architectural style.
History
The German Lutheran Congregation in Windhoek was founded on January 20, 1896, initially holding services in a church hall.
The idea to build Christuskirche emerged early, with a site allocated in 1898 and plans drawn by architect Redecker in 1900.
However, wars delayed construction until 1907.
The church was completed and consecrated in 1910, symbolizing peace through its name and location.
It has since undergone renovations, notably from 1967 to 1972, when the roof was replaced.
The church also commemorates German soldiers and civilians lost during the early 20th-century uprisings in Namibia.
Place Guide
Main Sanctuary1910
The central worship area features neo-Romanesque architectural elements and houses the original altarpiece copy of Rubens' 'Resurrection of Lazarus.'
Church Tower and Bells1910
A 42-meter-high tower topped by a Gothic spire, housing three bronze bells with inscriptions symbolizing peace and goodwill.
Stained Glass WindowsEarly 20th century
Three stained glass windows donated by German Emperor Kaiser Wilhelm, recently renovated to preserve their historical and artistic value.
Bronze Memorial PlaquePost-uprising period
Located inside the church, this plaque commemorates German soldiers, marines, and civilians who died during the Nama and Herero uprisings between 1903 and 1907.
Contact
Phone: 061 236 002
