One of Hamburg’s five main churches, the Jacobikirche, is slated to lose its spire. According to a renovation plan agreed upon by the church council and in coordination with the monument protection office, the post-war structure will be dismantled starting in 2028. The decision stems from damage to the tower’s masonry, according to the church.
Structural Concerns Drive Decision
The tower’s spire, constructed from steel-reinforced concrete, is reportedly too heavy for the medieval base. “The specialist planners therefore recommended removing the modern spire to sustainably secure the historical fabric of the tower shaft and thus one of the few remaining medieval structures in Hamburg,” a statement explained.
The church underwent extensive repairs in 2024, including the installation of supporting structures. Prior to the Advent season, the church was closed for several months.
A comprehensive renovation of the entire church, budgeted at 40 million euros, will require a permanent solution, according to Head Pastor Stefan Holtmann. The first tower spire, dating from 1587, was demolished in the mid-18th century. A second spire, built in 1826, collapsed during a bombing raid in 1944, burning into the church building.
The current spire was erected in the early 1960s. “It is painful to remove this spire,” said Holtmann, adding that he will particularly miss the tower clock. However, he emphasized the church has always been a place of worship for ordinary people and must remain open. “Perhaps this is the church we need,” the pastor said, reflecting on the building’s future form.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the spire be removed?
The removal of the spire is scheduled to begin in 2028, as part of a larger renovation plan.
Why is the spire being removed?
The spire, constructed from steel-reinforced concrete, is too heavy for the medieval tower base, causing structural damage.
What will happen to the tower after the spire is removed?
Currently, plans call for a weather protection roof to be installed, but whether the tower will receive a new spire is still uncertain.
As the Jacobikirche prepares for extensive renovations, what impact will the altered skyline have on Hamburg’s historic character?
