Propstei Buchholz

The St. Servatius Provost Church in Buchholz, located above Burgbrohl and Weiler, has stood for nearly 900 years now. The fact that it has endured for so many years—and, hopefully, will continue to do so for many more—was not always a given. Nearly 30 years ago, the fate of this venerable church seemed sealed. Severely damaged by the catastrophic fire on New Year’s Eve 1951, only a dilapidated ruin remained, which was becoming an increasing hazard to the public. At a time when almost only the new mattered, demolition seemed inevitable.
A few individuals stood up against the looming disaster, and thanks to the initiative of the former owners and other supporters, demolition was averted and the restoration of the historic building was initiated. On November 11, 1984, the Friends Association for the Restoration and Preservation of the Buchholz Provost Church (e. V.) was founded. Since then, the volunteer members of the association have been working on the church’s reconstruction with financial support from the federal government, the state, the diocese, companies, and private individuals.
The “Ahl Kirch” in Buchholz has long since ceased to be a construction site and is increasingly becoming a venue for culture and events. In cooperation with the Brohltal Municipal Association, we offer concerts and other events. And the consistently well-attended events show us that we are on the right track.
History at a Glance

* 1125 Construction of the vaulted basilica by the monks of the Benedictine Abbey of Gladbach
* 1150 Addition of the transept
* Mid-12th century: Expansion to the east—chancel and apse
* 13th century: Demolition of the chancel towers and shortening of the transept
* 1683: Baroque renovation
* 1802: Dissolution of the monastery by decree of secularization; the church was used as a barn
* 1951: Fire caused by negligent arson; increasing deterioration of the church
* 1981: Application for a demolition permit due to imminent danger of collapse
* 1981 Agreement between the Rhineland-Palatinate State Office for the Preservation of Historical Monuments, under State Conservator Prof. Hofrichter, and the Seul and Nuppeney families regarding the reconstruction of the former Buchholz provost’s residence
* 1984 Founding of the Friends Association

The Buchholz Provost’s Residence is open by appointment only!