St. Nicolai

St. Nicolai Church, located in the pedestrian zone of Eckernförde, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, is a remarkable example of medieval architecture that has evolved through centuries. This red-bricked hall church, dedicated to St. Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors, stands as a testament to the town's rich maritime heritage and religious history.

The History of St. Nicolai Church

The origins of St. Nicolai Church date back to the early 13th century. Initially constructed as a single-nave, towerless Romanesque church, it was built between 1200 and 1250. The eastern part of the current structure still retains elements of this original construction, serving as the altar area today. This humble beginning marked the foundation of what would become an architectural marvel over the centuries.

The first significant transformation occurred between 1310 and 1350, when St. Nicolai was elevated to the status of a parish church. During this period, the church received its first tower, a combination of a high granite stone foundation and a wooden structure built atop it. This granite wall now forms part of the western exterior and the interior's western end of the nave. Additionally, a small brick annex was constructed to the south of the altar room, parts of which are still visible today.

Architectural Evolution

By 1490, the wooden tower was replaced with a brick tower featuring a square spire, built upon the existing granite foundation. However, the most significant transformation took place between 1521 and 1530. During this period, the original single-nave Romanesque church was expanded into a three-nave, late Gothic hall church. This expansion effectively doubled the church's width. The new outer walls were constructed, and the previous north and south walls were replaced by four round pillars supporting six flattened pointed arches. This transformation gave St. Nicolai its current majestic appearance.

The church's expansion plans were never fully realized, possibly due to financial constraints and the onset of the Reformation. The existing structure was completed only to about two-thirds of the original plan. Evidence of these unfinished plans can still be seen in the masonry, where waiting joints were left for future construction.

Further Modifications and Additions

In 1612, the brick tower suffered significant damage, possibly due to a lightning strike or fire. Consequently, in 1619, the church roof was extended over the damaged tower, resulting in the unique feature of a tower within the church. A roof rider was added to the roof ridge as a replacement for the damaged tower spire.

Over the years, several annexes were added to the northeast side of the church. The current annex, constructed in 1913, replaced earlier structures, including a quarter-octagonal annex from around 1900.

The Interior of St. Nicolai Church

Inside St. Nicolai, visitors are greeted by a rich array of historical artifacts and artworks. The high baroque oak altar from around 1640, created by Hans Gudewerdt the Younger, is a focal point. It features a central depiction of Christ on the cross, flanked by figures of Mary and John, with additional figures of the Evangelists and symbolic representations of Faith and Justice.

The pulpit, originally located on a round pillar, was moved to the east wall of the nave after being damaged in a storm surge in 1872. The Renaissance-era panels from the old pulpit, created by Hans Gudewerdt the Elder, were preserved and incorporated into the new design. The pulpit's staircase features scenes from the life of Jesus, while the pulpit basket is adorned with scenes from the Old and New Testaments, accompanied by Low German inscriptions and apostle figures.

Significant Artifacts and Memorials

The church houses several notable artifacts, including the bronze baptismal font cast in 1588 by Flensburg bell founder Michel Dibler. This bell-shaped font, adorned with Passion of Christ motifs, is supported by four lion figures.

St. Nicolai is also home to numerous epitaphs and grave monuments. The epitaph for Thomas Börnsen, created by Hans Gudewerdt the Younger in 1661, features a frame adorned with numerous angel figures. Another notable epitaph is the Riepenau Epitaph from 1653, which includes a carved figure of Christ and allegories of Faith and Hope.

The church's seating includes the Rantzau family pew, crafted in 1578 by Ciriacus Dirkes, a master carver of the Eckernförde carving school. This pew features depictions of the noble Rantzau family and their ancestors.

Maritime Heritage and Musical Legacy

Reflecting its maritime heritage, St. Nicolai houses a ship model named David, donated in 1842 by Johann David Horchfeil. This model, approximately two meters long and 1.70 meters high, was restored in 2007/08 and symbolizes the hope for Schleswig-Holstein's victory over Denmark.

The church's musical legacy is embodied in its organ, originally built in 1762 by Hans Georg Heßler and donated by Friedrich Wilhelm Otte and his wife Dorothea Charlotte von Reventlow. The organ has undergone several restorations and modifications over the centuries, with the most recent updates in 2010 and 2019. Today, it boasts 37 sounding registers and nearly 2,500 pipes, used for both church services and concerts.

St. Nicolai Church is not just a place of worship but a living museum of Eckernförde's history and culture. Its architectural splendor, rich interior, and historical significance make it a must-visit for anyone exploring this charming coastal town.