Schelfkirche

The Schelfkirche St. Nikolai, nestled in the picturesque district of Schelfstadt in Schwerin, Germany, stands as a magnificent testament to Baroque architecture and the rich history of the region. With its striking red-brick façade and towering spire, the Schelfkirche is not just a place of worship but also a beacon of cultural heritage that has withstood the test of time.

The History of Schelfkirche St. Nikolai

The origins of the Schelfkirche date back to the early 13th century. The earliest recorded mention of a church or chapel on this site is from 1217, when a document referred to a cleric of St. Nikolai. It is believed that Count Henry I of Schwerin established a new church in 1228, likely in gratitude for his victory over the Danes at the Battle of Bornhöved. This early Romanesque church was consecrated by 1238.

Over the centuries, the church underwent several transformations. Between 1300 and 1320, the original Romanesque structure was remodeled into a Gothic hall church with a polygonal chancel. By the 16th century, however, the church had fallen into disrepair. Despite a makeshift renovation in 1586, it continued to deteriorate and became a filial church of the Schwerin Cathedral in the 17th century.

A significant storm in December 1703 caused severe damage to the church, prompting Duke Friedrich Wilhelm I to commission a new building. The foundation stone for the current Schelfkirche was laid on May 15, 1708, a date chosen to honor the name day of the Duke's wife, Sophie Charlotte. The church was designed by Jacob Reutz, with construction overseen by Leonhard Christoph Sturm after Reutz's death. The new Baroque church was consecrated on September 24, 1713.

Architectural Splendor

The Schelfkirche is a prime example of Baroque architecture in Northern Germany. The church measures 33 meters in length and 27.8 meters in width, with its spire reaching a height of 52.2 meters. The red-brick exterior is adorned with large, arched windows that allow natural light to flood the interior, creating a serene and uplifting atmosphere.

The main entrance is particularly noteworthy, with an inscription above the portal that reads: “ANNO 1711 HAT UNSER DURCHLAUCHSTER LANDESVATER UND HERTZOG FRIEDRICH WILHELM DIESES GOTTESHAUS GOTT ZU EHREN SEINEN UNTERTHANEN ZU ÜBUNG DER GOTTSELIGKEIT. SEINEN CÖRPER ZUR RUHE GESTIFTET.” This inscription emphasizes the church's dual purpose as a place of worship and a burial site for Mecklenburg's dukes.

Exploring the Interior

Inside, the Schelfkirche boasts an array of artistic and historical treasures. The organ, originally built by Friedrich Friese III, has undergone several modifications over the years but was restored to its 1858 condition in 1993. The baptismal font and the altarpiece depicting the Ascension of Christ were crafted by Gaston Lenthe, while the stained glass windows were created by Ernst Gillmeister.

The church's interior walls were repainted in 1964 to reflect the original color scheme, based on paint samples taken from the walls. The ceiling, however, does not have any original paintwork to guide its restoration. The church also houses paintings of Philipp Melanchthon and Martin Luther by Gaston Lenthe, which were restored in 2014 by Vollrat Dreyer.

The Bells of Schelfkirche

The history of the church's bells is as storied as the building itself. The original bells, cast in 1751, were melted down during World War I for the war effort. New bronze bells were installed in 1925, only to be requisitioned again during World War II. In 1959, the church replaced them with iron bells, which eventually succumbed to corrosion. In 2015, new bronze bells were cast and installed, ensuring that the church's melodious chimes continue to resonate.

The Organ

The Schelfkirche's organ has a fascinating history. The original organ, damaged by a lightning strike in 1717, was repaired and used until a new organ was built in 1755. This organ, with its ornate Baroque case, served the church for over a century before being replaced in the 1850s. The current organ, built by Friedrich Friese III, features a mechanical action and has been meticulously restored to its former glory.

Visiting Schelfkirche St. Nikolai

A visit to the Schelfkirche St. Nikolai offers a unique glimpse into the architectural and cultural history of Schwerin. The church's serene interior, combined with its rich history and stunning Baroque design, makes it a must-see for visitors to the region. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, the Schelfkirche promises an unforgettable experience.

In conclusion, the Schelfkirche St. Nikolai is more than just a church; it is a symbol of resilience and an enduring testament to the rich cultural heritage of Mecklenburg. Its walls, windows, and bells tell the story of a community's faith and perseverance, making it an essential stop on any tour of Schwerin.