Station: [6] Stone Testaments

The tombstones in this church serve as a reminder that, in the Middle Ages, a church was never merely a place for the living. Until 1768, particularly distinguished deceased individuals were even buried inside the church.

To the left of the staircase leading to the spring, you can see the oldest and most impressive tombstone in the church. It is the epitaph of Knight Philipp II of Daun-Oberstein. He died in 1432.

The sandstone relief, more than two meters high, depicts him life-size and in full armor. Visible are chain mail, arm and leg guards, and a cloak with slit sleeves. In his right hand he holds a dagger; in his left, a sword. Above him are his coat of arms and crest. At his feet lie two lions, symbolizing courage and strength.

Originally, this tombstone lay outside in the cemetery on the slope in front of the church. Today you can see it here inside. What is particularly noteworthy is to whom this monument is dedicated. Knight Philip II was the father of Wirich IV, the actual builder of this church. The church builder, shrouded in legend, thus erected a monument to his own father within his church. Here, legend and history go hand in hand.

Right next to it lies a fragment of a smaller and simpler slab. It belonged to Philipp’s wife, Countess Mena of Raug. The two stones belong together.

Two other stone figures are also worth a look. The elaborately designed tombstone further to the left commemorates Philipp Friedrich von Daun-Oberstein. He died in May 1615. He was a young count who was destined to become a canon but died young.

The heavily worn slab near the exit likely belongs to his sister. She died that same year at the age of only fifteen. Later, her slab served for a long time as a floor tile. That is why it is so smooth today.

Her father, Count Philipp Franz, is also buried in this church, directly in front of the altar. His tombstone, however, was lost during a renovation. You might want to remember the name Philipp Franz—you’ll encounter it again later in a painting.

Thus, these stones tell not only the stories of individual people; they also speak to the enduring memory that has been preserved in this church to this day.