Gertrudenkapelle

Nestled in the picturesque town of Güstrow in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany, the Gertrudenkapelle stands as a remarkable testament to the region's rich history and cultural heritage. This former chapel, now a protected monument, has undergone significant transformations over the centuries, evolving from a medieval place of worship to a poignant memorial and exhibition space dedicated to the works of the renowned artist Ernst Barlach.

The Historical Journey of Gertrudenkapelle

The Gertrudenkapelle, originally dedicated to Saint Gertrude of Nivelles, first appeared in historical records in 1430. Known then as the capella beate Gertrudis extra muros opidi Gustrow, it was situated outside the Hageböker Gate of Güstrow. The chapel likely served as part of a hospital or a pilgrims' hostel, providing spiritual solace and physical refuge to travelers and the sick. Ecclesiastically, it was a filial church of the Güstrow parish church of St. Mary and fell under the jurisdiction of the Diocese of Cammin.

The architectural design of the Gertrudenkapelle is reminiscent of other medieval hospital chapels in the region, such as those in Klein Grönau and near Dassow. However, it distinguishes itself with its length and the unique construction of its side walls, which feature a timber framework with a brick veneer. The rectangular, single-nave structure is topped with a flat wooden ceiling, and its eastern end is marked by a shallow, three-sided chancel. The current appearance of the eastern wall, with its three two-lane window openings, dates back to 1937. The solid western facade is adorned with five long, round-arched double niches, adding to its distinctive charm.

From Abandonment to Nazi Symbolism

Throughout the centuries, the Gertrudenkapelle experienced periods of neglect and repurposing. By the 18th century, it was associated with a burial ground, which later became known as the Gertruden-Kirchhof after the Reformation. Several mausoleums were constructed along the cemetery wall, and the chapel itself was used for burials. However, by the mid-19th century, it had fallen into disuse and disrepair, serving occasionally as a mortuary and a storage shed for gravediggers' tools.

In 1931, the city of Güstrow acquired the chapel and the disused cemetery from the church. Initial efforts to restore the chapel were unsuccessful, but with the rise of the National Socialist regime in 1933, a new purpose was envisioned for the building. The chapel was transformed into a Nazi Ahnenhalle (Ancestral Hall), intended to glorify the racially idealized family histories promoted by Nazi ideology. Extensive renovations were undertaken, including the reconstruction of the roof, the longitudinal walls, and the western facade. The chapel was ceremoniously inaugurated as an Ahnenhalle on August 30, 1937, featuring a bust of Hitler and plaques listing the names of Güstrow's oldest families.

A New Beginning: The Barlach Memorial

With the fall of the Nazi regime in 1945, the Ahnenhalle was left empty. In 1949, the Güstrow city council decided to repurpose the chapel as a memorial and exhibition space for Ernst Barlach, a prominent German sculptor, and writer. Barlach's former companion, Marga Böhmer, played a crucial role in this transformation, eventually making her home in the chapel's converted upper floor. The chapel was stripped of its Nazi symbols and maintained its 1937 architectural state. On October 31, 1953, it was officially inaugurated as the Barlach Memorial, showcasing Barlach's sculptures and serving as a lasting tribute to his artistic legacy.

Modern-Day Gertrudenkapelle

Since 1994, the Gertrudenkapelle has been part of the Ernst Barlach Foundation. From 2006 to 2007, the building underwent significant renovations, including a new roof and structural improvements. During this restoration, portions of the original wall paintings were rediscovered, and a section depicting the Scourging of Jesus was meticulously restored. In 2008-2009, a visitor pavilion designed by architect Diethelm Hoffmann was added, featuring sanitary facilities and a museum shop.

Today, the Gertrudenkapelle is one of three museums in Güstrow dedicated to Ernst Barlach's life and work. It houses a collection of his wooden sculptures and sculptural works, offering visitors a profound insight into his artistic journey. Nearby, Barlach's former studio house by the Inselsee displays additional sculptures, models, and graphic works, while an adjacent exhibition forum features further artworks and a graphics cabinet with drawings, prints, and manuscripts.

The Gertrudenkapelle stands as a symbol of resilience and transformation, reflecting the turbulent history of Güstrow and the enduring legacy of Ernst Barlach. A visit to this historic site offers a unique blend of medieval architecture, poignant memorials, and inspiring art, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the cultural treasures of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.