St. John's chapel

St. John's Chapel, known locally as Johanniterkapelle, is a hidden gem nestled in the picturesque town of Rheinfelden in Baden-Württemberg, Germany. This charming chapel, steeped in history and architectural beauty, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

The History of St. John's Chapel

St. John's Chapel was constructed in the 1450s, a period marked by significant upheaval and change. Originally, the Knights Hospitaller's commandery stood outside the city walls of Rheinfelden. However, after a devastating attack in 1448, Commander Johann Loesel initiated the construction of a new commandery within the city walls. The chapel, dedicated to St. John the Baptist, was strategically placed on the opposite side of Rheintorgässchen to accommodate the limited space available. By 1458, the chapel was completed, showcasing the craftsmanship of the city’s master builder, Herman.

The chapel's interior was likely finished by 1460, featuring four altars that added to its spiritual ambiance. Around 1500, the nave was extended westward, enhancing the chapel's capacity and architectural appeal. However, after the secularization of the commandery in 1806, the chapel was deconsecrated and repurposed as a storage space from 1813. It wasn’t until 1962 that the chapel was acquired by the local community, and in 1996, it found new life as an exhibition space.

Architectural Highlights

The Gothic architecture of St. John's Chapel is a testament to the artistic and structural ingenuity of its time. The chapel is oriented northward, facing the Rhine, and is crowned with a steep gabled roof that transitions into a pent roof on the west side. The walls are constructed from plastered rubble stone, while the window frames and tracery are crafted from Upper Rhine sandstone in various red hues, adding a touch of warmth and elegance to the structure.

One of the chapel's most intriguing features is the golden cross adorning the southern end of the gable, a symbol of its historical religious significance. A blocked doorway on the east facade once connected the chapel to the commandery via a bridge-like structure, which housed the administrative offices before its demolition in 1820. The four-story tower on the western flank of the choir is another striking element, with its bossed cornerstones and otherwise unadorned shaft.

Exploring the Interior

Inside St. John's Chapel, visitors are greeted by a lettner-like wall that separates the choir from the nave. The triumphal arch, made from sandstone, rests on intricately profiled imposts. The west wall of the choir features two pointed-arch doors, one above the other, leading to the tower's lower and upper levels. The altar house, elevated by a step and polygonal in shape, contains numerous acoustic pots embedded within its masonry.

Next to the western choir window is a sacrament house made of sandstone, adorned with the coats of arms of the order and Commander Johann Loesel. In 1951, a Baroque altar from 1699 was installed, originally belonging to the Margarethenkapelle of the Rheinfelden hospital, depicting St. Margaret against a cityscape backdrop.

Artistic Treasures

The chapel's walls are adorned with frescoes created using the secco technique on a thin lime wash. Among these is a depiction of the Last Judgment, dating back to around 1500 and attributed to a student of Martin Schongauer. This dramatic scene covers the upper half of the choir arch wall. Similarly attributed is the large-scale St. Christopher image on the east wall of the choir. The west wall of the choir showcases a pair of kneeling angels holding a coat of arms.

In 1950, artist Felix Hoffmann contributed stained glass windows in the choir, featuring various figurative representations that add a vibrant touch to the chapel's serene interior.

A Modern Role

Today, St. John's Chapel serves as an exhibition space, inviting visitors to explore its historical and artistic legacy. The chapel's transformation from a sacred space to a cultural venue highlights its adaptability and enduring significance within the community of Rheinfelden.

In conclusion, St. John's Chapel is not just a relic of the past; it is a living monument that continues to inspire and captivate those who step through its doors. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, this chapel offers a unique and enriching experience that is not to be missed.