Somplar’s history can be understood through its architecture: the Protestant parish church at Homberg 3 is a prominent historic landmark in the village. Another connection to Somplar’s craftsmanship can be found in nearby Bromskirchen. For additional cycling and hiking trails and museums, see the wider destination of Allendorf (Eder).
The Protestant Parish Church in Somplar
The church’s foundation stone was laid in 1950. Construction was completed in 1952, and the church was consecrated. The design was created by Kassel architect Bolte; Somplar painter Degenhardt was responsible for the interior design. This distinguishes two different contributions to the building: the architectural planning and the design of the church interior.
The church is a simple hall building with five rows of segmental-arched windows. There are greywacke details at the building’s corners; the distinctive west tower is built entirely of greywacke. The material references therefore apply to different parts of the building: the corner details and the tower, which is constructed entirely of greywacke.
Its place in the historic village centre is also part of the building’s history: the church is part of the historic village centre ensemble and, for historical reasons, is listed as a cultural monument in the Hessian Monument Register. Its construction period, the people involved in its design, its architectural form and its monument status provide different points of reference for understanding the building.
A Somplar Craftsmanship Connection in Bromskirchen
The historic town hall in nearby Bromskirchen was built between 1619 and 1621. Its ornamental wood carvings were made by Daniel Dornseif, a master carpenter from Somplar. This brings the village’s name into another architectural context: at the church, Somplar painter Degenhardt designed the interior; at the town hall, Somplar master carpenter Dornseif created the carvings.
The two buildings also represent different periods. The town hall was built in the early 17th century, while the church followed more than three centuries later, from the laying of its foundation stone in 1950 to its consecration in 1952. If you are interested in building history, you can explore two different aspects here: the ornamental woodwork at the town hall and the church’s simple form and greywacke tower in Somplar.
Additional Attractions in the Wider Destination of Allendorf (Eder)
The Linspher cycling trail is a cycling and hiking route between Allendorf (Eder) and Bromskirchen. It is around 9.2 kilometres long. The route is separated from motor traffic, passes through a tunnel and goes by a viaduct. It also runs past fields, forests, rivers, bridges and valleys. Its approximate length and two types of use give you a clear basis for choosing; check current trail conditions before setting off.
Another regional attraction is the local history museum at Bachstraße 15 in Allendorf. It is housed in a half-timbered building constructed in 1851 and renovated in the 1990s. The museum therefore offers a distinct perspective on building history in the wider destination of Allendorf (Eder), separate from Somplar’s church history.
The village museum “Huffmanns Haus” in Rennertehausen preserves memories of the village’s development. Its main themes include living and working, spinning and weaving, and sowing and harvesting. Visits are possible by appointment; arrange a time in advance. When planning, you can distinguish between Somplar’s church, the craftsmanship connection in Bromskirchen, and the independent cultural and trail offerings in the wider destination of Allendorf (Eder).
For the wider travel overview: Bromskirchen.
