Linden - St.-Peters

The exact age of the St.-Peters Church in Linden (about 6kms south of Giessen) is unknown. The church is placed on a once strongly fortified hill, mentioned in the Lorsch codex. A smaller Carolingian chapel had been here already as early as 810/820, foundations of this chapel have been found during a restauration. The church was probably erected within the 12th century.

The romanesque portal is the outstanding feature of St.-Peters. It was carved around 1220/1230 and originally it had been on the southern entrance of the church, but was moved to the western facade.

There are only a few of these portals in Germany - and this one is pretty unique, though it is weathered and difficult to "read". One theory claims, that the carvings are connected to the legend of Saint Wenceslaus I, the Duke of Bohemia. Saint "Wenzel" was murdered by his brother. Soon after his "martyrdom" several hagiographies were (told and) written - and these were very popular within the middle ages.

Both sides have very weathered lions. From this position only the little sinner in the lion´s mouth can be seen.

This is the left side, next to the door, sideview. The carvings are weathered and kind of "clumsy", compare with the qualities of work, that can be found in France and Spain.

On the left - a person, holding a flag or banner with five tails. His bearded head is strangely bent sidewards. He probably "accompanies" the person seen on the frontview.

On the right - a siren - and below a huge snake.




The parish has a website about the history of the church (in German):
www.ev-kirche-gr-linden.de/kirchengelaende.html