German Kirche in Tashkent
German Kirche
The Evangelical Lutheran Church, or the German Church, is the only Lutheran church in Tashkent. Located on Sadyk Azimov Street, the modest Gothic building has stood for over a century beneath the dense shade of ancient trees.
History and Architecture
Built in 1899 by the local Lutheran community with funding from I. Krause, the church was designed by the renowned architect and artist A.L. Benoit. It features brown-yellow brickwork and follows the layout of traditional Baltic neo-Gothic architecture.
During the Soviet era, the building was used as a warehouse. In the late 1970s, it was transferred to the Tashkent Conservatory and became a space for opera studio performances, with an organ installed for regular concerts.
Interior and Traditions
The interior is more modest compared to the Catholic church, featuring traditional Lutheran elements such as a crucifix, sacred lamp, and candles. Services are conducted in both Russian and German.
Community and Services
Historically, many Tashkent Germans attended this church, including officers in the royal service. Today, it is still visited by their descendants and foreign guests. Services are held on Sundays and led by a pastor elected from within the community, without undergoing Catholic-style ordination.