Hospital chapel St. Lazar (Neuruppin)

Nestled in the charming town of Neuruppin in Brandenburg, Germany, the Hospital chapel St. Lazar is a hidden gem that invites visitors to step back in time and explore a piece of medieval history. Known locally as Siechenkapelle St. Lazarus, this late Gothic North German brick chapel stands as a testament to the religious life and healthcare of the medieval period. With its rich history, architectural beauty, and serene surroundings, the Hospital chapel St. Lazar is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

The History of Hospital chapel St. Lazar

The origins of the Hospital chapel St. Lazar date back to 1490 when it was founded by Claus Schmidt, a swordsmith. The chapel was likely built simultaneously with the adjacent hospital in 1491, providing a place of worship for the sick residents of the hospital. The chapel was officially confirmed by Bishop Busso von Alvensleben of Havelberg in 1493, dedicated to the glory of God, the Virgin Mary, the apostles, and other saints including Cosmas and Damian. It is believed that the chapel originally housed three altars, each overseen by a dedicated clergyman.

Throughout the centuries, the chapel has undergone numerous changes and restorations. In the mid-16th century, ownership of the chapel and hospital transferred to the city, with an archdeacon managing both. The chapel was used by the Reformed congregation from 1699 to 1702 and underwent a Baroque-style renovation in 1715, which included the addition of a pulpit altar. The chapel's bell tower was renewed in 1750, and it served as a garrison building from 1793 to 1806. The interior was decorated by the Berlin artist G. Kaufmann in 1912.

During the DDR era, the chapel and its surrounding buildings were extensively restored. From 1998, the chapel was privately owned and underwent further renovations, completed in 2004. Today, the chapel, along with the hospital and the Uphus (a historical half-timbered house), forms a protected architectural ensemble that continues to captivate visitors with its historical significance and beauty.

Exploring the Hospital chapel St. Lazar

The Hospital chapel St. Lazar is a single-nave, two-bay brick building with a three-sided chancel. The Baroque bell tower, covered in slate, adds a distinctive charm to the chapel's silhouette. The exterior is adorned with a frieze of glazed brick at the eaves, and the pointed-arch windows feature stone mullions. Inside, the chapel boasts a rich network of vaults with rosettes and fish bladder tracery, high wall niches, and figurative representations, including masks and half-figures of saints like Mary in a halo.

The chapel has three entrances: the main portal on Siechenstraße, a pointed-arch side portal with a tympanum on the courtyard side, and a passage to the former hospital opposite the altar on the gallery. The main portal is framed by figurative representations of Christ at the pillar and Saint Francis on clay panels, adding to the chapel's historical and artistic value.

The Unique Features of Hospital chapel St. Lazar

One of the most intriguing aspects of the chapel is its bell, which is operated manually via a unique system of ropes that run externally over the roof and eaves. This historic method ensures that the bell is only rung with permission, adding an element of tradition and authenticity to the chapel's character.

The interior of the chapel features a pulpit altar from 1715, with a three-tiered structure adorned with gilded columns and a painting of the Last Supper on the predella. The pulpit itself is decorated with ornamental panels in the shape of crosses, and the canopy was repainted in 1912. A notable wooden crucifix from around 1500, originally housed in the chapel, is now displayed in the nearby monastery church. Additionally, the chapel contains a brass chandelier from the 17th century and a neo-Gothic organ built by Neuruppin organ builder Albert Hollenbach, whose pipes were restored in 1930/31 after being dismantled during World War I.

The Surrounding Hospital and Uphus

The hospital building, constructed alongside the chapel in 1491, was partially rebuilt in 1730 due to severe decay. The original late Gothic brick structure with a blocked portal on Siechenstraße has been preserved. The hospital was sold to a private owner in 1991 and underwent extensive renovations, transforming it into a hotel.

Adjacent to the hospital is the Uphus, a former almshouse built in 1692/94. The name Uphus refers to the upper floor, which was added later. The building features a characteristic gallery that remains one of the last of its kind in Neuruppin. The Uphus was restored in 1994/95 and now houses a restaurant on the ground floor and hotel rooms on the upper floor, offering visitors a unique blend of historical charm and modern comfort.

In conclusion, the Hospital chapel St. Lazar in Neuruppin is a captivating destination that offers a glimpse into the town's medieval past. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and serene atmosphere make it a perfect spot for those looking to explore the cultural heritage of Brandenburg. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Hospital chapel St. Lazar is sure to leave a lasting impression.