Abbey of the Holy Cross

The Abbey of the Holy Cross, known locally as Zisterzienserinnenkloster zum Heiligen Kreuz, is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Rostock, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany. This remarkable site, founded between 1269 and 1272 by Cistercian nuns, stands as the only fully preserved monastic complex in the city. Its rich history and stunning architecture make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

The History of the Abbey of the Holy Cross

Legend has it that the abbey was founded by Queen Margaret of Denmark out of gratitude for a miraculous rescue at sea. The foundation story, though based on a forged document from 1270, adds an intriguing layer to the abbey's history. Named after its main relic, a fragment of the True Cross, the abbey quickly amassed wealth through donations, inheritances, and gifts, becoming a significant landowner in Rostock and beyond.

The abbey flourished with nuns primarily from affluent Rostock families. By the 14th century, it had to impose restrictions on admissions due to its popularity. The Reformation reached the abbey in 1562, transforming it into a Protestant convent without drastically altering the nuns' way of life. The abbey's fortunes waned after the Thirty Years' War, and by the 19th century, discussions about converting its assets into state property began. The abbey was dissolved in 1920, but the remaining nuns were allowed to live there until their deaths, with the last one passing away in 1981.

Exploring the Abbey and Its Architecture

The abbey's church, now used as a university church, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. This towerless, three-nave hall church features a polygonal choir dated to 1311. The nave, completed around 1353, is adorned with cross-ribbed vaults supported by slender octagonal pillars, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The church underwent significant restoration in 1898-99 under Gotthilf Ludwig Möckel, giving it its current Neo-Gothic interior.

Visitors are often captivated by the church's medieval wall and vault paintings, which were meticulously restored in 2004. The cloister, a two-story Gothic structure from the 14th century, surrounds a tranquil courtyard that was once the abbey's cemetery. The refectory, located in the south wing, boasts a two-aisled vaulted hall supported by five limestone columns, offering a glimpse into the monastic life of the past.

The Treasures of the Abbey Church

The church's main altar, a winged altar from the first half of the 15th century, is a visual feast. It can be opened multiple times to reveal intricate scenes from the life of Saint Benedict, the Virgin Mary, and the Passion of Christ. The central shrine houses a richly carved Crucifixion scene and saintly figures in the soft style of the period.

The so-called Nuns' Altar, dating from the early 16th century, is another highlight. Originally located on the now-demolished nuns' gallery, it depicts scenes from the legend of the True Cross discovery by Empress Helena. The altar's predella is particularly ornate, featuring three-dimensional scenes of Christ's burial, resurrection, and descent into the underworld, showcasing the influence of Dutch art.

Other Notable Features

The church is home to a splendid sacrament house from around 1380, located north of the main altar. This towering structure, adorned with figures of the Holy Trinity, Madonna, John the Baptist, and Thomas, was restored after 2005, reinstating its medieval support structure. The late Gothic triumphal cross group, still in its original location between the choir and nave, features a cross relic encased in a rock crystal capsule at the chest of the crucified Christ, lending the church its name.

Another significant relic, a thorn from Christ's crown of thorns, is housed in a lantern-shaped reliquary, believed to have originated from Schwerin Cathedral. The church also boasts a pulpit from 1616 with reused late Gothic carvings of Christ and four apostles, as well as parts of the original choir stalls from the early 15th century.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Today, the abbey's former cloister buildings house the Cultural History Museum of Rostock, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the region's rich past. The museum's collections include artifacts and exhibits that provide insights into the abbey's historical and cultural significance.

The Abbey of the Holy Cross is not just a historical monument; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of faith, resilience, and artistic expression. Its walls echo with stories of devotion and transformation, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the cultural heritage of Rostock.