St Johannes Baptist

St Johannes Baptist is a church building in central Herford that combines two architectural periods with three naves throughout its structure. The eastern portion displays baroque features, while the western extension showcases neo-Romanesque style elements and houses a significant organ built in the modern era.

The building dates back to 1230 and was originally connected to a Knights of Malta complex, serving as an important Catholic gathering place during the Reformation period. The baroque redesign of the eastern section took place in the early 1700s and reflects how church architecture evolved at that time.

The church serves as a spiritual center for the Catholic community and displays religious artwork from different periods inside its walls. Visitors can experience here a deep connection to faith and the role this place plays in local devotion.

The church is open to visitors and holds regular worship services that are part of community life. During a visit, guests can explore the interior and view the crafted organ along with the religious artwork on display.

A Pietà from the 16th century comes from the Osnabrück school of art and represents a rare example of how regional artwork made its way into church collections of that era. This sculpture shows both the artistic connections between neighboring regions and the importance such works held for local worship.