Sankt Johanniskloster

Nestled in the heart of Brandenburg an der Havel, Sankt Johanniskloster, originally known as St. Johannis, stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of history that has unfolded along the banks of the Havel River. This former Franciscan monastery, now a vibrant venue for events, invites visitors to explore its storied past and marvel at its architectural beauty.

The Historical Journey of Sankt Johanniskloster

The roots of Sankt Johanniskloster stretch back to the mid-13th century when the Franciscan order moved their convent from Ziesar to Brandenburg due to unrest. The initial church, built around 1240, was a modest, towerless structure. Over the centuries, it evolved through various expansions, beginning in 1411 with the addition of Gothic architectural elements.

By 1271, the monastery had become a significant religious center, hosting the first provincial chapter of the Saxon Franciscan Province. It was a hub for several monasteries, including those in Berlin and Frankfurt/Oder. The monastery embraced the Observant reform in 1428, emphasizing a stricter adherence to poverty and ecclesiastical discipline.

The Reformation brought significant changes, and in 1544, Elector Joachim II dissolved the monastery. The buildings found new life as a hospital, with the remaining Franciscans granted lifetime residence. The last known friars were recorded in 1570, after which the site fully transitioned to civic use.

Transformations Through Time

In the late 17th century, the Johanniskirche was assigned to the French Reformed community, which had previously worshipped at the Nikolaikirche. The 19th century saw the monastery’s transformation into a brewery, but by 1865, the last of the monastic buildings were demolished, making way for a school that was later destroyed during World War II.

The library of the Franciscans, having survived the Reformation, was eventually relocated to Kraków during the Second World War, where it remains a point of cultural contention between Germany and Poland.

A Revival and Modern Adaptation

Despite suffering damage during wartime, including a British air raid that destroyed the western sections, Sankt Johanniskloster has been lovingly restored. The late 20th century brought plans for demolition, but political changes in 1989/1990 halted these efforts. The subsequent decades saw various restoration projects, culminating in a major renovation ahead of the 2015 Federal Horticultural Show.

Today, the church is a blend of historical reverence and modern utility. It features a striking glass-metal west façade, a new copper roof, and reopened spaces that once separated the side aisles from the main nave. The restoration preserved medieval wall paintings, revealing vibrant depictions of religious scenes and motifs.

Architectural Marvels of Sankt Johanniskloster

The church is a splendid example of late Gothic architecture, constructed entirely from brick. Its slender tower, added between 1460 and 1469, is capped with a gracefully curved spire. The building's proximity to the Havel River has caused some structural leaning, supported by robust exterior buttresses.

Visitors can admire the large rosette window on the northwest side, historically glazed with white glass, a feature that has been meticulously restored. Inside, the absence of original furnishings is offset by the discovery of late Gothic wall paintings, including depictions of the Last Judgment and possible Marian iconography.

A Venue for Today

Now serving as a venue for various events, Sankt Johanniskloster continues to be a focal point of community life. The Evangelical Reformed Church holds services here from spring to autumn, breathing new life into this ancient space. The church's transformation into a cultural venue ensures its preservation and relevance for future generations.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or simply a curious traveler, Sankt Johanniskloster offers a captivating glimpse into the past and a vibrant present. Its walls echo the stories of centuries, from monastic devotion to modern-day celebrations, making it an essential stop in Brandenburg an der Havel.