Stiftung Sankt-Georgen-Hospital zu Bernau

In the charming town of Bernau bei Berlin in Brandenburg, Germany, lies a historical gem that has stood the test of time and witnessed centuries of history—the Stiftung Sankt-Georgen-Hospital zu Bernau. This remarkable site, originally known as Sankt-Georgen-Hospital zu Bernau, is not just a relic of the past but a testament to the enduring spirit of community and care. Founded in the early 14th century by a guild of Bernau craftsmen, this hospital complex has served various purposes over the centuries, from caring for plague victims to providing shelter for travelers and elderly members of the guild families.

The Origins of Stiftung Sankt-Georgen-Hospital zu Bernau

The story of Stiftung Sankt-Georgen-Hospital zu Bernau begins in the early 1300s, a time when the town of Bernau was flourishing. The local guild of cloth makers and tailors, recognizing the need for a place to care for those afflicted by the plague, established this hospital outside the city walls near the Mühlentor. The hospital was named after Saint George, the dragon slayer, a symbol of protection and bravery. Surrounded by a high brick wall, the hospital complex included a small church and a hospital building, providing a sanctuary for the sick and dying during one of the most challenging periods in European history.

As the plague subsided, the hospital's role evolved. By the 15th century, it had transformed into a hospice for travelers and an old age home for retired craftsmen. However, the hospital and its chapel did not escape the turmoil of the times. In 1432, the Hussites destroyed both buildings. But the resilient spirit of the Bernau guildsmen prevailed, and by the mid-15th century, they had rebuilt the chapel in the Gothic brick style, complete with a high-pitched roof and a bell tower. The hospital building itself was reconstructed in 1738, with further modifications made in 1809, as indicated by the date inscribed on the gable wall.

The St.-Georgen-Chapel

The St.-Georgen-Chapel, rebuilt in the 15th century, is a captivating example of Gothic architecture. This single-nave chapel, constructed from a mix of fieldstones and bricks, features early Gothic architectural elements such as simple buttresses and decorative gables with finials and pointed arch niches. The steep gabled roof is crowned with a bell tower, housing a bronze bell cast in 1659. Initially, the chapel had two entrances, but the southern entrance was later bricked up during restoration works.

Inside the chapel, visitors can admire the beautifully restored interior, which was brought back to its 1872 appearance during the early 21st-century renovations. The wooden gallery that once existed was removed, and new pews, a pulpit, and an altar were installed. The altar, located in the rectangular east choir, features a carved crucifixion group and a memorial plaque. The altar candles are replicas of the oldest candlesticks used in Bernau. The walls are adorned with statues of Saint Stephen and Saint Margaret, dating back to around 1500. The colorful stained glass windows and the relief of Saint George fighting the dragon on the keystone of the nave add to the chapel's historical and artistic significance.

Modern-Day Usage

Today, the Stiftung Sankt-Georgen-Hospital zu Bernau continues to serve the community, albeit in a different capacity. The site is now part of the Hoffnungstaler Anstalten, an organization that provides social services, including a counseling center for addiction patients. The Caritas organization also has its Bernau office within the hospital complex. The St.-Georgen-Stiftung oversees the site, ensuring that it remains a place of historical and cultural importance. The foundation's mission is to promote charitable and selfless support for elderly care, health, and welfare services, as well as to maintain the St.-Georgen-Hospital Chapel as a cultural and historical monument, cultural venue, and house of worship.

One of the highlights of the Stiftung Sankt-Georgen-Hospital zu Bernau is the Concerts at Night, held in the chapel every Friday from May to September. These concerts offer a unique opportunity to experience the chapel's serene atmosphere and excellent acoustics while enjoying performances by talented musicians.

In conclusion, the Stiftung Sankt-Georgen-Hospital zu Bernau is more than just a historical site; it is a living testament to the resilience and compassion of the Bernau community. From its origins as a plague hospital to its current role in providing social services and cultural events, this remarkable complex continues to be a beacon of hope and history. A visit to Stiftung Sankt-Georgen-Hospital zu Bernau is not just a journey through time but an inspiring experience that showcases the enduring spirit of care and community in Bernau bei Berlin.