The sharp decline in Church membership in Germany is leading to the closure of an increasing number of Churches and to their desecration. Instead of standing empty, however, many of these buildings are being extensively renovated and put to new uses. The forms of reuse are diverse and range from commercial and social to private purposes.

In many cases, the exterior structures of the Churches are preserved, especially when they are listed as historic monuments. Inside, however, the spaces are completely reorganized. Thus, a former catholic church in Jülich has become a bicycle shop, one in Wettringen a soccer hall, and one in Kleve a boxing arena. Pubs, libraries, and bookshops now also occupy former Church buildings. Entire monastery complexes are converted into hotels, deliberately retaining historical names in order to make the tradition of the site visible.

A desecrated Church that has been converted into a bookstore.

Increasingly, Churches are being converted into residential space. In cities facing housing shortages such as Berlin, Essen, Cologne, or Wuppertal, churches are being transformed into multi-family housing. An early example is the former protestant Lukaskirche in Essen, which was converted into a residential and commercial complex upon its desecration. Typical architectural elements such as high windows, the Church Tower, or foundation plaques were preserved, while former altar areas were repurposed as stairwells or apartments. For residents, the former sacred significance plays a lesser role than the atmosphere.

In addition to housing, converted Churches also host social facilities such as daycare centers or medical practices. Such secular uses are nevertheless understood as a continuation of christian values, as they serve the common good. At the same time, there is criticism, for example regarding the loss of the sound of church bells or the alienation of familiar landmarks.

Others emphasize that church conversions should always be considered in the context of the surrounding neighborhood. Especially in socially disadvantaged areas, of all places, former Churches shall play an important role as places of encounter, culture, or sports. (DW)

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By Okay Altinisik | 28-12-2025, 15:52:46