Nestled in the charming town of Heiligenhafen, the Stadtkirche Heiligenhafen stands as a testament to centuries of history and architectural evolution. This remarkable church, a cultural landmark in the district of Ostholstein, Schleswig-Holstein, invites visitors to explore its rich past and stunning craftsmanship.
The origins of the Stadtkirche Heiligenhafen trace back to the mid-13th century. Constructed in the transitional style between Romanesque and Gothic, the church is a significant early witness to the Christianization of Northern Germany. Hermann von Heiligenhafen, a notable figure of the time, is recorded as the holder of the benefice in the 13th century.
The church is a three-nave hall made of brick, featuring an early Gothic chancel from the mid-13th century. Its foundation, corner pilasters, and round arch frieze are typical of the era. The eastern three-window group and the now-sealed priest's door add to its historical charm. Over the centuries, the church underwent several renovations, with its current form dating back to the 1950s. The interior was refurbished in the 1970s, including new seating and altar design, and a new organ was installed in 1974.
Step inside the Stadtkirche Heiligenhafen, and you'll find a wealth of historical artifacts and exquisite art. In the tower hall, a late Gothic gravestone from 1481, adorned with evangelist symbols and coats of arms, captures the eye. This stone, measuring 177 by 120 cm, tells the tale of a bygone era.
One of the church's most striking features is the towering figure of Saint Christopher from the early 16th century. Standing at 265 cm, this statue is believed to have been crafted by a student of Claus Berg, a master from Lübeck, influenced by the Renaissance.
The choir of the church is home to intricately carved choir stalls from around 1515. The northern stalls boast a front parapet with three doors and a continuous bench crowned by canopies. Relief figures of Paul, Andrew, and the Virgin Mary adorn the side cheeks. On the southern side, five seats without a back wall feature reliefs of Saints Peter, Anthony, Nicholas, and Barbara.
Also in the altar area are wooden sculptures of Adam and Eve, believed to be gifts from a Danish king. These Renaissance-era figures are notable for their bold representation, with Eve's face appearing at the head of the serpent that surrounds her. Despite the unknown artist, the sculptures bear a resemblance to South German carving influences, dating them between 1521 and 1524.
A forged chandelier dating back to 1592 hangs within the church, casting a warm glow over the sacred space. The mid-17th-century goblet-shaped baptismal font, surrounded by caryatids, is another highlight. Herm-shaped arches span the font, decorated with floral ornaments.
Above a side exit, the epitaph of the seafarer Moritz Hartmann is displayed. This late Baroque masterpiece, crafted by sculptor Thomas Quellinus in 1698, depicts Hartmann as a sea hero, surrounded by flags, weapons, and an anchor, wearing the Order of St. Mark over his armor.
Among the church's notable artworks is a 1701 portrait of Pastor Buchardi, an oil painting measuring 226 by 149 cm. Nearby, an oil painting of the Crucifixion scene, likely a former altarpiece from 1702, adds to the church's rich tapestry of art. This painting was stored on the church floor until its rediscovery and placement in 1954.
Ship models hang in the nave, including the 'Samson' from 1636 and an 18th-century three-masted votive ship, measuring 1.2 meters in length. These models, along with the stained glass windows by Richard Süßmuth in the choir, offer glimpses into the maritime heritage of Heiligenhafen.
The church's bells have a storied past, with the original 1553 bell melted down in 1901. Today, the bell ensemble consists of three cast steel bells from 1901, tuned to d′, f′, and as′. The organ, installed in 1974 by the Weigle company, features 29 registers on two manuals and pedal, built on a core from 1517 behind a historically revised prospect.
Stadtkirche Heiligenhafen is more than just a place of worship; it is a cultural treasure trove that captures the spirit of Heiligenhafen's rich history. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or a history buff, this church offers a fascinating journey through time, making it a must-visit destination in this picturesque town.
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