Photo: Cesar von Meissen
Basilica of St. Ludgerus in Essen-Werden
The Basilica of St. Ludgerus in the Werden district of Essen is one of the most important late Romanesque church buildings in the Rhineland. Its history dates back to the 9th century, when it was built as the monastery church of the former Werden Abbey. It underwent a Romanesque transformation in the 13th century. To this day, the Basilica of St. Ludgerus is constantly being renovated and houses historical relics as well as the shrine of St. Liudger, after whom it was named. The Folkwang University of the Arts is located in the immediate vicinity of the basilica. A small but nice weekly market is held on the square in front of the church on Saturdays.
Architecture and history
The basilica impresses with its imposing architecture. Its architectural style is based on Carolingian architecture, mighty and ornate and geometrically-oriented stone buildings, typically equipped with round arches and barrel vaults, stylistic elements of the Romanesque architectural style testify to an eventful past. Outside the actual church building is the crypt, in which the shrine of St. Liudger is laid out. Liudger was the first bishop of Münster and also the founder of the Benedictine abbey at the time. His veneration is still alive today through the annual Ludgerus procession.
Procession of St. Ludgerus
A special event in this context is the Ludgerus procession, which takes place every year through Werden, which is decorated with flags and bunting. The faithful and anyone else who is interested gather together to parade through the picturesque streets in the immediate vicinity of the basilica. The devotion to St. Liudger is celebrated, with the procession combining tradition, faith and community. The Ludgerus Festival in Essen-Werden, also known as the Appeltatenkirmes, takes place on the neighboring square of Werdener Feintuchwerke - also known as Tuchmacherplatz among locals - on the weekend of the procession.
Treasury of St. Ludgerus
The treasury of the Basilica of St. Ludgerus not only houses the bones of St. Liudger, but also the remains of what was once considered the extensive treasure of the Benedictine Abbey of Werden. Due to its early foundation in the 9th century, early medieval and medieval treasures, parchments, manuscripts, gold and silversmith's work, ivory carvings, paintings and sculptures can be found here. A truly remarkable collection for art and history lovers.
Our conclusion
The Basilica of St. Ludgerus is not only an imposing church building and historical jewel, but above all a place of encounter and faith. Its imposing and historic architecture, its historical exhibits and the annual Ludgerus procession make it an important cultural and spiritual place for Catholics in Essen-Werden. Masses, baptisms, school graduation services and weddings traditionally take place here.
