Polster-Projekt in der Neubaukirche
Turning old into new – chair sponsorships at the Neubaukirche
Forty years after its destruction during the Second World War, the Neubaukirche was officially reopened in 1985 as the Julius-Maximilians University’s ceremonial hall. Carefully restored in keeping with its original design, the interior of the Neubaukirche has, since 1985, provided the setting and the focal point for social life at the University of Würzburg.
You have no doubt taken a seat on one of the 750 chairs – which are rotated regularly to ensure even wear and tear – during one of the various events held there. You may also have noticed that, after 30 years of intensive use – despite the rotation – the upholstery has become worn through. The solid wood frame, which was designed specifically for the Neubaukirche, remains, however, very sturdy, apart from showing signs of wear and tear.
Following a suggestion from the alumni network, the Alumni Association has launched the project ‘Turning Old into New – Chair Sponsorships for the Neubaukirche’ to help the University, at a time when support from the Free State for such matters is becoming increasingly scarce, to restore the seating to a standard befitting the atmospheric ambience of the Neubaukirche. In the spirit of sustainability, resources are being conserved and the existing materials – that is, the chair frames – are being given a new lease of life through a fresh coat of varnish, whilst the seat and back cushions are being appropriately refurbished.
Renewing the upholstery and refinishing the solid wood frames costs a total of 150 euros per chair. The University of Würzburg would like to honour each sponsor with a listing on a plaque of honour, which will be ceremonially unveiled at a special event.
We would be delighted to count you among the supporters of the chair restoration project at this historic site of the University of Würzburg!
With heartfelt thanks for your commitment and kind regards!
Signed: Prof. Dr Theodor Berchem, Chair of the Association (President of the University 1975–2003)
Signed: Bruno Forster, Treasurer (Chancellor of the University of Würzburg 1992–2006)
Thank-you Matinee on 30 April 2017
A different take on music education, a wild boar from the forest, a climb up the tower and a get-together in the foyer of the Neubaukirche – with around 200 chair sponsors, the Alumni Association and the University were able to personally express their gratitude for their support at a thank-you matinee. The photos were taken by Pat Christ and Prof. Klinker, to whom we owe the view of the fortress from the tower.
