Stahlkirche

The Stahlkirche was a church building with a parabolic ground plan, its entire construction made from steel. Over 600 lead-glass window panes were integrated into the structure and shaped the interior light of the space.

The building was first created for the International Press Exhibition in Cologne in 1928 and was then relocated to Essen in 1931, where it became the Melanchthonkirche. In March 1942 bombing raids completely destroyed the structure.

The name "Steel Church" directly references the material that defined the entire structure. Visitors could experience an unusual combination of modern industrial technique and spiritual space, which was a completely new concept for its time.

The building no longer stands, but two original church bells have survived and can be seen at the entrance of the replacement church. Visitors can discover the history at this location through the bells and historical information on site.

The building was an example of prefabricated steel construction in religious architecture and was one of the most innovative construction projects of its time. This technique was revolutionary then and showed how modern materials and religion could come together.

Location: Essen

Location: Cologne

GPS coordinates: 51.43790,6.98939

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:03