St George's Chapel, known locally as Sankt-Georgen-Hospital, is a captivating historical gem nestled in the heart of Templin, Brandenburg. This enchanting chapel, the oldest preserved building in the town, is a testament to the resilience and architectural brilliance of medieval times. Its rich history and stunning Gothic architecture make it a must-visit for anyone exploring this charming region of Germany.
St George's Chapel has witnessed centuries of history unfold around it. Built in the late 14th century, it has remarkably withstood multiple city fires, including the devastating blaze of 1735, and even served as a stable for Napoleon's troops. Despite such tumultuous times, the chapel's structure remained intact, thanks to the dedicated efforts of local figures like Superintendent Neumann, Bartsch, and Pastor Johann Gottfried Niedlich in the mid-19th century. Their restoration efforts from 1862 to 1866 revived the chapel for religious services, preserving its spiritual legacy.
The chapel's architecture is a splendid example of Gothic design, constructed predominantly from brick. The single-nave structure features two bays and a polygonal choir, supported by sturdy buttresses. The entrance, a striking pointed arch portal, greets visitors with its intricate blend of glazed and unglazed bricks. Above the portal, a magnificent tracery window captures the eye, flanked by elegant lancet and double lancet blind arches. The gable is adorned with slender blind arches and crowned with fragmented pinnacles, adding to its Gothic charm.
Inside, the chapel boasts two cross-ribbed vaults that span the ceiling, with the choir featuring a 5/10th polygonal vault. The ribs, painted a vivid red, rest on leaf consoles, adding a touch of color to the serene interior. The side walls are embellished with double lancet blind arches, while the choir is illuminated by tracery windows, composed of double lancets crowned by trefoils. This intricate design creates a tranquil yet majestic atmosphere, inviting visitors to pause and reflect.
St George's Chapel is home to several remarkable artworks. Among them is a late Gothic carved altar, whose origins remain a mystery. Its central motif is missing, but the retable is adorned with ten saintly figures, including St. Barbara and Apostle Thomas in the central shrine. The wings feature apostles and saints like James the Younger, Peter, and St. Hedwig, each depicted with exquisite detail.
One of the chapel's most notable pieces is a sculpture group from the early 16th century, depicting St. George as a dragon slayer. This dramatic scene tells the medieval legend of the knightly saint saving a princess from a dragon, symbolizing the triumph of Christianity over pagan threats.
Visitors can also admire a late medieval devotional image of a seated, suffering Christ, carved in wood, displayed in a niche on the south wall. Nearby hangs a fine copy of Anthonis van Dyck's painting The Lamentation of Christ, originally housed in Berlin's Royal Gallery. This copy was crafted by Johann Gottfried Niedlich, a drawing teacher at the Berlin Academy of Arts and father of the aforementioned Templin pastor.
Adjacent to the chapel, a nursing home continues the tradition of the Sankt-Georgen-Hospital, serving the community as the original hospital once did. The former cemetery, now transformed into a garden, offers a peaceful retreat for reflection and remembrance.
St George's Chapel stands as a symbol of Templin's rich history and enduring spirit. It is not just a place of worship but a cultural landmark that has played a significant role in the town's narrative. The chapel's resilience through the ages mirrors the town's own story of survival and adaptation.
In conclusion, a visit to St George's Chapel offers a journey through time, showcasing the architectural prowess and historical significance of this medieval masterpiece. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply a curious traveler, the chapel promises to leave you with a profound appreciation for the stories etched into its ancient walls.
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