Gasthaus zum Ritter Sankt Jürgen, nestled in the charming town of Husum in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, is a site steeped in history and architectural beauty. Known locally as Gasthaus zum Ritter St. Jürgen, this establishment offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's past, blending medieval heritage with modern-day functionality. Today, it serves as a senior home with a sermon hall, yet its story stretches back to the Middle Ages, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
The origins of Gasthaus zum Ritter Sankt Jürgen can be traced back to the 15th century when it was first mentioned as a hospital dedicated to Saint George. At that time, it included a church, a cemetery, residential buildings, and land holdings. This establishment was primarily reserved for the elderly, the infirm, and clergy members, embodying a tradition of care and charity.
In 1525, under the influence of Frederick I, the spread of Lutheran teachings began in the region. By 1528, the first Protestant sermon was preached at St. Jürgen, marking a significant religious transformation. Between 1571 and 1574, Duke Adolf initiated a major reconstruction project, welcoming back the poor who had been temporarily housed in a deserted Franciscan monastery. This period marked the beginning of the Gasthaus's long-standing role in providing for Husum’s less fortunate citizens.
Over the centuries, Gasthaus zum Ritter Sankt Jürgen has undergone numerous architectural changes, reflecting a blend of styles. In 1666, the street-facing facade was rebuilt, incorporating both Gothic and Baroque elements. By the 19th century, the structure had become somewhat dilapidated, prompting further renovations.
In 1879, the street-side wing was completely reconstructed by architect A. Schweizer from Kiel. This new design embraced the style of Brandenburg brick Gothic, featuring two stories, a central passageway, and two gables adorned with finials. The building extends into a long two-story section between the cemetery and a decorative garden, where the sermon hall is located. Some parts of this hall date back to the original construction between 1563 and 1565.
The sermon hall within Gasthaus zum Ritter Sankt Jürgen houses several remarkable artifacts. Among them is an altarpiece from 1641 by Dietrich Witt, framed in a contemporaneous cartouche style. Visitors can also admire a 15th or 16th-century altar cross, a Romanesque triumphal cross, and a pulpit crafted around 1565 by Jan van Groningen, a Dutch carver active in Husum.
The adjoining cemetery, used since the 16th century, was transformed into a green space with a linden alley cross in 1859 and again in 1937 by landscape architect Henry Maaß. The cemetery is home to 55 gravestones from the 18th and 19th centuries, including the vault of the Woldsen and Storm families. Notably, it is the final resting place of the celebrated Husum poet Theodor Storm and his family.
Theodor Storm, a renowned poet from Husum, had a deep connection to Gasthaus zum Ritter Sankt Jürgen. His ancestor, Hans Storm, was one of the four overseers in the 18th century. The cemetery became the burial site for Storm’s family, and the Gasthaus itself served as the setting for his novella In St. Jürgen, written in 1867. Storm vividly described the location, capturing its serene beauty and historical significance.
Today, Gasthaus zum Ritter Sankt Jürgen continues to serve the community as a senior home, operating under a public law foundation. Its income still largely derives from land holdings, a tradition dating back to medieval times. The institution is managed by four volunteer monastery overseers who serve eight-year terms, ensuring that the Gasthaus remains a vibrant part of Husum’s cultural fabric.
In conclusion, Gasthaus zum Ritter Sankt Jürgen is more than just a building; it is a testament to Husum’s rich history, a symbol of enduring care and community spirit. Whether you’re drawn by its architectural beauty, its historical significance, or its literary connections, a visit to this remarkable site offers a unique window into the past and present of this charming German town.
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