Suche
Biberach's rectory: 200 years of history and future in danger!
Biberach is celebrating the 200th anniversary of its rectory. The historic site plays a central role in community life and is in urgent need of renovation.
Biberach's rectory: 200 years of history and future in danger!
In the heart of Biberach, the historic rectory is celebrating a very special anniversary: it has been an important part of church life in the region for 200 years. The rectory, which was founded as an independent church foundation after the secularization of Roggenburg Monastery in 1802, is much more than just a building - it is a living history book that is interwoven with the community. [Augsburger Allgemeine](https://www.augsburger- Allgemeine.de/illertissen/dieses-gemeindezentrum-in-roggenburg-ist-ein-gemauertes-geschichtsbuch-111335718) reports that the rectory, which was ready for occupancy in 1825, has since then fulfilled central functions for the pastors and the community.
The most important facilities include the rectory and the youth home, which together offer a wide range of services for the citizens of Biberach. From choir rehearsals to group lessons to language courses, a lively exchange is maintained here. The use of community spaces shows how important the rectory is for local social life.
Renovation needs and financing
However, in recent years, fire damage and the building's age have led to the need for renovation. It is estimated that over 300,000 euros will be needed for the urgent renovation work, which includes, among other things, a new heating system, thermal insulation and the replacement of all windows. The window repair alone is expected to cost around 120,000 euros. The financing will come from money from the Diocese of Augsburg, monument protection funds and donations. The population's support for the rectory is strong, which indicates the people's attachment to this traditional place.
The monument protection authorities play a central role here. Approval is required for all measures that affect the appearance or substance of a cultural monument. These requirements ensure that the characteristic charm of the rectory will be preserved in the future, as the [Amt for Building and Nature Conservation](https://www.biberach.de/de/Service-Verwaltung/Das-Landratsamt/ Unser-aemter/Amt-fuer-Bauen-und-Naturschutz/Sachfelder/Sachgebiet?view=publish&item=level1&id=1004) explains.
A place of community and culture
However, the significance of the rectory goes far beyond the structural substance. It is a place of community and art, represents a valuable part of the cultural heritage and is recognized as such by the German Foundation for Monument Protection. This foundation initiated various campaigns to raise awareness of the threats to sacred buildings and stimulated a debate about new possible uses. There is a strong awareness that churches and vicarages are valuable meeting places that promote social cohesion, regardless of religious affiliation.
Preserving the rectory must therefore not only be a technical challenge, but also raise the question of how the future of such cultural monuments can be shaped in order to keep them alive and relevant for future generations. The initiatives show that it is possible not only to preserve these historic sites, but also to revitalize them so that they continue to be a central gathering place for the community.