Bethanienkirche (Bethany Church), Leipzig

Bethany Church (Bethanienkirche) is an Evangelical Lutheran church located in Leipzig. Designed by the architect Carl William Zweck, the church was constructed between 1931 and 1933 and stands as a listed building with a distinct architectural character.

The church's architecture is rich in symbolism. It features a 38.5-meter tower made of reinforced concrete, often referred to as the "lemon squeezer" due to its unique shape, reminiscent of medieval fortified churches in Thuringia. The tower also symbolizes Martin Luther’s famous hymn, "Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott" ("A Mighty Fortress is Our God"), echoing the church's Protestant roots. Preceding the tower are two arcades that represent welcoming arms, inspired by the biblical call of Christ, "Come to me, all of you," inviting both the community and the public into the church.

Inside, the nave is located on the first floor and can be accessed by stairs from the arcades or through a central entrance beneath the tower. The nave is elevated, providing a distinct perspective for worshippers. The church is illuminated by 14 high windows, and a colored medieval sculpture of Christ adorns the center of the community hall.

Below the nave, on the ground floor, are two congregation halls-a large one and a smaller one-that can be combined into a single space. These halls are equipped with a stage, a projection room, dressing rooms, and original wooden seating, with ceilings, lamps, and doors preserved in their original state.

The architectural approach of Bethany Church was intentionally traditional, aligning with the desires of the church community. The Leipzig Association of German Architects noted that the architects intentionally avoided a highly modern design, preserving a more conventional aesthetic. This approach, combined with the church’s symbolic architecture, makes Bethany Church a notable landmark in Leipzig.