Hanseatic
modern
St Cosmae's Church
Stade's landmark
St. Cosmae Church is one of two inner city churches in Stade and a landmark of the Hanseatic city. Its bell tower rests above the historic town centre and offers participants on a guided tour of the steeple a sweeping view over the town, the Alte Land and the Elbe. Not only is it something for the eyes but also for the ears – the gigantic church bells and the organ by the famous organ builders Huß and Schnittger invite you to attend a concert.
The history of St Cosmae
The present church of St Cosmae was built in the 13th century as a single-nave hall with crossing, transept arms and rectangular chancel. The massive octagonal crossing tower was most likely also built at this time, whereas the church did not receive a west tower. Previous structures of the old council chapel may date back to about the year 1000.
In the 15th century, the chancel was extended to incorporate additional rooms, and in 1604 the bridal house was added. In the 17th century, the east façade was given a new three-gabled front.
St Cosmae’s burned down in 1659 and received new furnishings made in Hamburg. The St Gertrude altar (around 1500), which was taken from the church of St Nicolai that was demolished in 1834, a crucifixion relief (around 1580) and a chandelier originate from before this time. In 1682-84, the church was given its impressive spire, which is now a landmark of the town.
Notable 17th century furnishings include the high altar by Christian Precht (1677), pulpit, baptismal font and, in particular, the wrought-iron grilles in the baptistery. The church was extensively renovated in 1963-66 and especially in 1985-91. A large part of the exterior masonry was also renewed.
Tip: If you want to climb the half-timbered tower of the Cosmae Tower, past the 350-year-old bells, you will be rewarded with an impressive view over the town and the surrounding countryside on a guided tour of the steeple.
The Huß/Schnitger organ
The centrepiece of the church is the baroque organ, the construction of which was undertaken by the Glückstadt organ builder Berendt Huß in 1668 and completed by his highly talented journeyman and younger cousin Arp Schnitger.
The completion of this organ in 1675 established Schnitger’s reputation: Arp Schnitger became one of the most famous organ builders in the north. Word of the organ’s exceptional quality soon spread, and from 1675 to 1702 the baroque composer Vincent Lübeck was the first organist on the new St Cosmae organ.
Even today, the organ is considered one of the most important organ works from the 17th century. It was restored in the 1970s to its original condition and sound.
Latest information:
From January to March 2023, all church services and concerts of the two city centre parishes of St. Cosmae-Nicolai and St. Wilhadi will take place in the Cosmae Church to save energy.
Both churches will be heated to 12 degrees for the events. Warm clothing is recommended.
Church services
The parishes of St Wilhadi and St Cosmae have a joint service schedule. The main services take place on Sundays at at 11 am, alternating between the two inner-city churches. Current dates can be found in the notice boards and on the homepage of the parish (German).
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