St. Matthäus Church (Melle)

St. Matthew is the main Roman Catholic church in Grönegau, located in downtown Melle. Founded in the Middle Ages (around 800), it is the original parish of the deanery of Grönenberg in the south-eastern area of the diocese of Osnabrück.In addition to the residential tower of the Gesmold moated castle, it is the oldest evidence of architecture in Grönegau, the southern Osnabrück region. It is considered an excellent example of Low German architecture around 1200, built on the Kohlbrink, a rise in the Else river valley, located in today's pedestrian zone next to the Mell town hall and the Evangelical Lutheran St. Peter's Church. In 1974 it was extended by adding a new church in the form of a tent roof.The oldest documented mention of the church in Melle, which has survived to this day, dates back to 1169. In it, the church is referred to as Parochia Menele (Melle parish church). The pastor was no longer just the bishop's agent, but a clergyman with his own rights. The city of Melle was also founded at this time.
Source: Wikipedia

On the path between the town hall and the church, a narrow stone protrudes from the sacristy wall, which used to protect a relief figure, probably Peter.
The head is the oldest human representation in Grönegau and may even date back to the 11th century.

Very elaborately designed but turned out well: combining the old church with a new one.