Hildesheim | Cathedral | Annenkapelle
The Annenkapelle in Hildesheim is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. St. Anne’s Chapel together with the cathedral of St. Michael’s and the Hildesheim Rosenstock, forms an aesthetic unit in the cathedral area. It is the central focal point in the middle of the Romanesque cathedral cloister. Built in 1321 as a foundation for Otto II, it clearly stands out as the first building built at the beginning of Gothic architecture in Hildesheim. In the course of the interior renovation, during which the cracks in the ceiling were repaired and the floor of light sandstone was renewed, a new lighting concept was also developed. “The small chapel should shine like a lantern in the cemetery. As a sign of hope and confidence in a world that is falling apart, this applies to the political sphere as well as to the Church,” remarks Auxiliary Bishop Heinz-Günter Bongartz.
The light interior of the Annenkapelle impresses with its transparency and clear structure. The image program of the keystones in relief in the vault with Phoenix, Pelican and Lion is symbolic of mercy and resurrection. An equally clear line in the floor bathes the room in atmospheric light. Additional miniature spotlights and recessed floor lights accentuate the sculpture of Anna with the Child Jesus and the entrance portal.
The stone witnesses, like the fragments of modeled gargoyles, remind us of the vulnerability of the world. Overall, the lighting design gives the chapel a special atmosphere and supports the spiritual aura of the High Gothic building.
We are very proud to have been part of this renewal.
Client: Diocese of Hildesheim
Electrical planning-installation: Elektro Sander
Photos: Henning Stauch