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A church on my travels (cont ...)

In 1275, the Ottonian church was once again ravaged by re
with only the westwork and crypt surviving. Back to rebuilding,
the church now combined various features of the old church
with the new Gothic style but with a stronger Westphalian
design genre. This church was completed in 1316.

In 1943, Essen became the target of a bombing due to its Krupp
steel works. The Minster suffered heavy damage. Rebuilding
began in 1951 and when completed, the church became the
seat of the newly founded Diocese of Essen.

The original architect of Essen Abbey church remains unknown
but is believed to be one of the best in that time, particularly in
observing the westwork which even today is viewed as
immensely unique, with its square central tower crowned by an
octagonal belfry and pyramidal roof.

- Shewantha Rodrigo

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