Nestled in the picturesque village of Ratekau in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, the Vicelinkirche stands as a testament to medieval architecture and history. This enchanting fieldstone church, one of the best-preserved of its kind in Eastern Holstein, dates back to the 12th century. Its unique blend of Romanesque style and historical significance makes it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.
The story of Vicelinkirche begins in the 12th century, a time of transformation and conquest. Following the Holsten's conquest of Wagrien in 1138/39, the region was entrusted to Count Adolf II of Schauenburg and Holstein by Henry the Lion. Adolf II commissioned Vizelin, a missionary, to spread Christianity among the Slavs, marking the beginning of a new era. The church's construction began in 1156, two years after Vizelin's death, under the guidance of Count Adolf and Bishop Gerold of Oldenburg.
The church was strategically built as a single-nave hall church with a choir and apse, featuring a striking 48-meter high round tower that once served as a defensive structure. The use of fieldstones, bound with gypsum mortar from the Segeberg limestone, gives the church its distinctive appearance. The roof, adorned with wooden shingles, adds to its rustic charm.
Despite numerous renovations over the centuries, the Vicelinkirche retains much of its original allure. Significant renovations took place in 1824, 1933, and 1956, each aiming to preserve the church's historical integrity while adapting it for contemporary use. A major restoration from 2008 to 2011 uncovered original brick flooring and stone benches, offering a glimpse into the church's early days.
Today, the church is heated using 15 geothermal probes, a modern addition that ensures comfort without compromising its ancient structure. The northern side of the church features a sacristy extension, added in 1913, blending seamlessly with the original fieldstone construction.
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Inside the Vicelinkirche, visitors are greeted with a blend of old and new. While much of the original interior has been replaced, a few treasures remain. A crucifix from the late 16th century, hanging in the apse arch, stands as a testament to the church's enduring faith. Restored in 1956, it remains a focal point of reverence.
The pulpit, dating back to 1824, is still in use, offering a tangible connection to the past. An altarpiece depicting Christ on the Mount of Olives, also from 1824, is preserved, albeit no longer displayed prominently. A unique artifact is the torso of a baptismal angel from 1764, damaged during the wars of 1806/12 and rediscovered in 1991. Its reconstruction in 2019 restored its former glory, and it now graces a niche near the transition from the nave to the choir.
The church's tower houses a set of five bells, each with its own story. The smallest bell, cast in 1925 by the Bachert bell foundry, survived the metal donations of World War II, which claimed four historical bells. Replacement bells were cast in 1962 and 1993, restoring the harmonious peal that resonates through Ratekau.
The Vicelinkirche's musical heritage is enriched by its organ, originally from the 16th or 17th century. Rebuilt in 1891 by Marcussen & Son, the organ underwent a neobaroque transformation in 1959 and was later restored closer to its original state in 1982/83. Today, it features a unique disposition with additional registers, offering a rich auditory experience for visitors.
Beyond the church's walls, the surrounding area offers intriguing historical sites. The Wilhelmseiche, a majestic oak tree, stands as a memorial to Kaiser Wilhelm I's 100th birthday. Nearby, a memorial stone commemorates General Blücher's surrender after the Battle of Lübeck in 1806. The Steinkiste of Ratekau, a megalithic tomb from the Bell Beaker culture, invites exploration into ancient history.
In conclusion, the Vicelinkirche in Ratekau is not just a church; it is a journey through time. Its walls echo with stories of faith, resilience, and community, inviting visitors to step back into a world where history and spirituality intertwine. Whether you're drawn by its architectural beauty or its rich past, the Vicelinkirche promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Schleswig-Holstein.
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