Johanneskirche at Feuersee – A Landmark in Stuttgart-West

Construction and Architecture

• Built between 1865 and 1876, designed by Württemberg’s chief architect Christian Friedrich von Leins.

• Style: Neo-Gothic, inspired by major European cathedrals.

• Location: on an artificial peninsula in the Feuersee (“Fire Lake”), originally a water reservoir for firefighting.

• Features: cruciform ground plan, pointed arches, ornate stone tracery, and a multi-part choir.

  
  

War Damage and Reconstruction

• During World War II, the church suffered heavy damage – its spire and vaulting were destroyed.

• Reconstruction (1948–1966) left the tower without its spire, replaced by a viewing platform with a balustrade. The nave’s vaulting was not rebuilt.

• These visible scars are preserved intentionally as a memorial to peace, forming part of the church’s identity today.

  
  

The Protestant Parish Stuttgart-West

Formation and Members

• The parish was created in 2019, merging the former congregations of Paulus, Paul-Gerhardt, and Johannes.

• It serves around 8,000 members.

• Stuttgart-West is one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods: densely built Gründerzeit houses, a lively urban lifestyle, cafés, and plenty of green spaces.

  
  

Services, Music, and Programs

• Main Sunday Service: 9:45 AM at Johanneskirche.

• Children’s Church: 11:15 AM (outside school holidays).

• After-Work Service: Thursdays, 5:00–5:30 PM.

• Other parish centers:

  • Pauluskirche: family focus, strong musical life (choirs, orchestra, brass ensemble).

  • Paul-Gerhardt-Kirche: meditation, spirituality, programs for seniors.

• Music is central: organ concerts, choir performances, and orchestral events are held regularly at Johanneskirche and the other churches.

  
  

A Public and Cultural Space

• Johanneskirche is one of Stuttgart’s most photographed landmarks and a tourist attraction.

• The church is open daily, inviting both worshippers and visitors.

• Surrounded by the Feuersee with its promenade, benches, and cafés, the setting blends city life, nature, and architecture in a unique way.

Significance and Identity

• Johanneskirche was the first church built in Stuttgart after the Reformation.

• It is a listed historic monument and a prime example of neo-Gothic architecture in Stuttgart.

• The missing spire and vault are a conscious reminder of war destruction – preserved as a visible memorial for peace.