St. Pankratius (Steinkirchen)

St. Pankratius Church in Steinkirchen, a district of Lübben, is a hidden gem nestled in the picturesque landscape of Brandenburg, Germany. As one of the oldest churches in the region of Niederlausitz, this historic site offers a glimpse into the architectural and cultural heritage of medieval Germany. Its serene setting and storied past make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

The Architectural Marvel of St. Pankratius

St. Pankratius is a late Romanesque brick church, with its origins tracing back to the first half of the 13th century. The church's construction from stone is so significant that it lent its name to the entire locality—Steinkirchen, meaning stone churches. The rectangular choir, built in the latter half of the 13th century, was later extended eastward with regular fieldstone blocks, showcasing the architectural evolution over centuries.

The church's design features a striking triple window group at its eastern end, each window crafted into narrow pointed arches. The nave, initially adorned with small lancet windows, has seen modifications over the years, with some windows extended downward to allow more light into the sacred space. The gothic influence is evident in the pointed arch doorways, one of which remains sealed, hinting at the church's long and varied history.

A Journey Through Time

In the 1700s, St. Pankratius underwent a transformation, temporarily ceasing its function as a house of worship and serving instead as a grain storage facility. Only the front section continued to serve as a chapel for cemetery services. However, post-1945, the church experienced a revival, with its interiors cleared and repainted, and new seating arrangements pieced together from diverse sources, some of which remain today.

During the 18th century, a crypt was added to the southern exterior of the choir, with the gravestone of Karoline Kunigunde Wend, who passed in 1783, embedded in its gable. The church grounds also hold the family graves of the von Houwald family, including the poet Ernst von Houwald, whose gravestone still stands despite the damage to his nearby castle in 1945.

Exploring the Church's Interior

Inside, the church is now a modest community room, characterized by a flat, paneled ceiling and modern seating. The original triumphal arch is closed off, and a wooden crucifix from the late 15th century hangs above the western entrance. The long choir was once covered by a wooden barrel vault, now replaced by a flat ceiling adorned with baroque paintings from the early 18th century, depicting angels with instruments of the Passion, and the divine glory, Gloria Dei.

A narrow gallery graces the western side of the choir, where restoration efforts in 1991 uncovered and revealed acanthus paintings on the gallery parapet. These artworks beautifully depict the virtues of faith, love, hope, and patience, adding a layer of spiritual and artistic depth to the space.

Artistic Treasures and Restorations

The church houses remnants of late Gothic wall paintings, including a depiction of Christ as the Judge of the World and vine motifs preserved in window reveals dating back to the 15th century. The wooden altar and pulpit, crafted in the early 18th century, are noteworthy for their intricate designs. The altar features a scene of the Last Supper and an oval laurel-framed depiction of the Mount of Olives.

The pulpit, with its polygonal shape, is adorned with images of the Savior and the four Evangelists, standing on a column at the southern choir wall beneath a simple soundboard. Nearby, a carved Ecce Homo figure from the 15th century adds a poignant touch. The church also boasts two patronage chairs from the late 15th century, with lattice-like grilles, standing against the northern and southern choir walls.

Visit and Experience

While the church's acoustics might be challenging due to its various modifications and additions, the historical and artistic richness more than compensates. A visit to St. Pankratius offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the layers of history embedded in its walls. Whether you're drawn by its architectural beauty or its storied past, St. Pankratius in Steinkirchen promises a memorable journey through the annals of time.