Jesuitenkirche

For the world to see! An architectural gem not to be missed! Arriving by train from Frankfurt, it was an overcast occasionally misty morning in Heidelberg - unbeknownst to us, also a city known for its science! Making our way by bus towards old-town, our anticipation was undeterred by whatever nature’s intentions might be. We were also thrilled, imagining how magical this city would soon be during the upcoming Christmas season - mountain snowfall, festival lights, music, holiday cheer - all combined with a spirit of love. A day earlier we were inspired by a married couple met in Bacharach who had highly recommended visiting Heidelberg. So, here we were! So much to see! Never enough time! Six hours until our train departs! A student of genealogy, I thought of my German great-great grandparents, wondering whether they’d ever visited Heidelberg. I felt certain they had! Arriving near the old-town market square, we found our way into the tourist information office, where we randomly met a local guide, encouraging we visit the Jesuit church. “A must see”, we were told. So glad to have learned this informational tidbit. My aging father graduated long ago from a Jesuit university. This visit was for you Dad! Off we went, trekking the few hundred meters distance along the main boulevard. Finally turning left, this amazing structure was before us. At the front entrance we were pleased finding it remained unlocked. The time, approximately 1pm. Walking inside, I removed my cap, finding an awe-inspiring house of worship. Yes, it was indeed beautiful, but notably serene. A serenity of peace, kindness, and love; much-needed in this present day turbulent world, a world seemingly always mired in conflict. We sat, we admired, we prayed, seeking personal serenity. And while my wife continued praying for our daughter, I was being drawn by the welcoming architecture, the uniquely designed Stations of the Cross, and the magnificent crystalline cross, a pristine like prism, positioned to ceiling hang along the center aisle, before reaching the altar. Never have I seen such sparkling ingenuity. Each soft subtle movement of the cross reflecting nature’s changing moods. I wanted to know more, while thoughtfully pondering whether my mood had changed, since entering this house of God. Truth is, it had. A door to serenity, simplicity, and prayer, had been nudged open at a time when it was personally most needed. Thank-you to the unknown guide for recommending this splendid masterpiece be visited!

Incredible church, the inside is beautiful, so peaceful.

Built between 1712 and 1759 this beautiful, Baroque, Roman Catholic Cathedral is the largest and most important church in Heidelberg and is certainly a must visit while in town. I went to a Jesuit college myself so I have been in and around many Jesuit buildings and this is one of the prettier ones that I’ve ever seen. It’s very unique in that the inside is all alabaster white and really feels like you are in the clouds. It’s quite large on the inside, but not nearly as large as some other ones that you will see in Italy or in Cologne. There was no entry fee, and there were only a few other people inside all of which were there for prayer. We saw one other tourist couple entering as we were exiting so it’s a very quiet and serene place to check out. It’s right in the middle of old town so it’s an easy walk to all the historical sites of Heidelberg. I would honestly recommend for anyone to visit, especially if you are catholic.

Enjoy the beautiful church and the intricate details of the Saint statues. During mass, the organist played beautifully. Do not miss out on the museum. Inside the church and to the left. The entrance is almost hidden. Go upstairs and enjoy years of history and dedication to the church.

Really nice old church with plenty of seating and a calming atmosphere. A little out of the way so it is less busy then others. Active church.

This is a beautiful church in Heidelberg. Usually, during the week, the organ player practices different movements and parts from musical pieces. It is mesmerizing to be inside at that time. The acoustics are flawless.

This church is very unique as it is so stark white and modern. Looks like it’s just been painted with “bright white”. The church is big and really quite beautiful in its uniqueness. The organ is impressive and beautiful too. I felt my spirits lifted wandering around here.

The Church of the Jesuits is a very welcoming and interesting church in the heart of the Old Town. They tend to put exhibitions of symbolic nature, and during December for Christmas they placed one of my all time favorite Krippen ever. The thought, symbolism and skill putting this great piece of art left me stunned. I am so grateful to have visited this Church and would love to see such exhibitions again. The altar and the orgel are also incredibly beautiful. Everything is so clean and calm that you feel in a very comfortable atmosphere.