Germany - Oberstdorf, St. Johannes Baptist

St. Johannes Baptist - the parish church of Oberstdorf - stands on the market square in the center of town. The tower with a height of 66 meters - the tallest in the upper Illertal - is the landmark of the town.

The year 991 is mentioned in chronicles as the start of construction of the parish church, but other sources report that this Romanesque church was consecrated in 1141. In 1865, two thirds of Oberstdorf fell victim to the the great fire, including the parish church in the middle of the village; only the surrounding walls and the burnt-out tower remained standing.

The reconstruction of the parish church took place in 1866. The walls of the nave, which were still standing and made of stone masonry could be used again; the nave was raised, extended and provided with a newly built choir. The church was finally reconsecrated in 1872.

Four altars, beautiful pictures and statues adorn the church. The high altar and the people's altar are in the choir room. On the left is the Pentecost altar and on the right the Christmas altar. The church also has a beautiful carved pulpit.