Palace church Ahrensburg

Nestled in the charming town of Ahrensburg in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, the Palace church Ahrensburg (known locally as Schlosskirche Ahrensburg) stands as a testament to centuries of history, faith, and architectural evolution. This Evangelical Lutheran church, with its late Gothic brick style, is not just a place of worship but a historical monument that has witnessed the ebb and flow of time.

The History of Palace church Ahrensburg

The roots of the Palace church Ahrensburg trace back to the late 16th century when it was constructed under the patronage of Peter Rantzau. Built concurrently with the Ahrensburg Castle, the church originally served as the castle chapel and the burial site for the castle's owners. The construction dates, marked by inscriptions on the east and west portals, read 1593 and 1594, respectively.

The church's design is a simple yet elegant late Gothic brick structure, featuring a rectangular hall. The ceiling, a marvel of craftsmanship, is a coffered design with small cross-ribbed fields, suspended between the invisible ceiling beams. Peter Rantzau, in honor of his brother Daniel Rantzau, who had previously built a magnificent Renaissance-style cenotaph in the Westensee Catharinen Church, erected his own tomb in the heart of the Palace church Ahrensburg. Adjacent to the church once stood a free-standing bell tower, adding to its medieval charm.

However, the church's tranquility was disrupted during the Great Northern War when Swedish soldiers ravaged its interior in 1713. By 1716, Detlev Rantzau undertook the task of refurbishing the church, infusing it with a rich Baroque style. Given that the crypt beneath the altar was already filled with coffins, Detlev added a burial chapel on the north side, where he was eventually laid to rest in 1746. An intriguing inscription above the chapel door, adorned with family crests and cryptic symbols, remains a mystery known only to Detlev Rantzau himself.

Due to mounting debts, the Rantzau family had to relinquish the estate, which was subsequently acquired by Heinrich Carl von Schimmelmann in 1759. Under Schimmelmann's ownership, the church underwent significant external modifications. The original gabled roof was replaced by a hipped roof, and in 1778, the separate bell tower was replaced by a new tower attached to the west wall, which still houses a bell dating back to 1591. Up until 1804, this tower boasted a copper-covered helmet, adding a distinctive feature to the church's silhouette.

Exploring the Interior

Stepping inside the Palace church Ahrensburg, visitors are greeted by elements that have stood the test of time. From its original construction, the oak altar table and parts of the seating have been preserved. The rest of the interior, however, was predominantly crafted post-1713.

The master carpenter Carl Döbel created a pulpit altar adorned with numerous carved figures, completed in 1716. The predella features a painting depicting the Last Supper, while the pulpit basket above showcases the resurrected Jesus Christ flanked by the four Evangelists. Topping this intricate structure is a crucifixion scene, adding a solemn yet beautiful focal point to the church.

Flanking the altar are the loges for the pastor and the estate owners, a reminder of the church's dual role as a private chapel and a community church. Suspended before the altar is a baptismal angel, which is lowered for baptism ceremonies, adding a touch of celestial grace to the rites.

Several epitaphs within the church and the burial chapel commemorate the pastors and notable figures of the community, each telling a story of devotion and legacy.

The Organ

The Palace church Ahrensburg is also home to a remarkable organ, originally built in 1640 by Friedrich Stellwagen. This small yet exquisite instrument was restored in 1969 by the Danish organ-building firm Marcussen. Featuring 21 registers on two manuals and a pedal, the organ's mechanical action and historic pipework continue to enchant listeners with its melodious tones.

The Congregation

Beyond its historical and architectural significance, the Palace church Ahrensburg has been a cornerstone for the local Evangelical Lutheran community. Serving not only as a burial site for the estate owners but also as a replacement for an older parish church in the Woldenhorn parish, it has played a vital role in the spiritual life of the area.

Today, the Ahrensburg parish, which includes the districts of Bünningstedt and Siedlung Daheim in the Ammersbek municipality, is one of the largest congregations in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Northern Germany, with approximately 11,000 members and four pastoral positions. The St. John's Church, designed by Otto Andersen and consecrated in 1960, serves as a secondary preaching venue. Despite being closed in 2013, it was reopened for Easter services in 2014 following community protests, highlighting the congregation's dedication and resilience.

The God's Cottages

Adjacent to the church, the God's Cottages (Gottesbuden) were built between 1594 and 1596 along the edge of the cemetery. These low row houses, originally intended as almshouses, continue to serve their purpose, being rented out by the church community at a symbolic price, in accordance with Peter Rantzau's legacy.

In conclusion, the Palace church Ahrensburg is more than just a place of worship; it is a living museum of history, art, and community spirit. Its walls echo with the stories of those who built it, worshipped within it, and sought solace in its serene embrace. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to the Palace church Ahrensburg promises a journey through time and a deeper appreciation of this remarkable landmark.