Discover the secrets of St. Pauli Monastery in Brandenburg!

Discover the secrets of St. Pauli Monastery in Brandenburg!

The Saint Pauli Monastery in Brandenburg an der Havel is not only a fascinating monument, but also a place with an eventful history that dates back to 1286. At that time, the foundation stone was laid for the monastery complex, which over the centuries developed into an imposing building with a church, numerous living and working areas and extensive gardens. Originally, monks of the Dominican order lived here, which had existed since 1215 until they were withdrawn after the Reformation in the 16th century. The last Dominican to live here left the monastery at the end of the 15th century, reported meetingpoint-potsdam.de.

Today the monastery has been converted into a state archaeological museum, which not only documents the history of the monastery, but also offers exciting insights into archaeological research in the region. The retreat wing is used as an exhibition room. Many original building elements have been preserved to this day, although the monastery has undergone numerous renovations over the centuries. Visitors have the opportunity to take tours that delve deeper into the monastic life of the monks of the time and even enter areas not normally open to the public.

Insight into history and architecture

The monastery complex is built using traditional Brandenburg brick technology and impresses with its Gothic architecture. The hall church, a three-aisled building, was completed over the course of around 100 years, with the choir being the oldest part. The church was consecrated in 1286 under the patronage of the Apostle Andreas and Mary Magdalene before it was consecrated in 1384 by Bishop Dietrich III. was rededicated. During this time, the monastery also played an important role as an educational institution for the region, as _Wikipedia_) notes.

The monastery was the center of religious life in the new town of Brandenburg until the Reformation. When Elector Joachim II overwrote the Neustadt complex in 1560, the church became Protestant and the monastery buildings found a new use as a hospital and geriatric care facility. Unfortunately, the monastery complex was not spared from destruction: in April 1945 it burned down during the conquest by the Red Army and in 1958 part of the southern row of pillars collapsed. It was only in 2002 that the decision to reconstruct the monastery was made, and in 2008 the state museum was opened. This extensive restoration not only brought the buildings back to life, but also made it possible to bring back the famous choir apex window, which is considered one of the oldest medieval windows in Brandenburg.

Guided tours and visiting options

Anyone who would like to experience the special atmosphere of the monastery up close can take part in the guided tours offered. Admission is 5 euros, reduced at 3.50 euros and for families at 10 euros. There is no separate guide fee. Registration is required due to the limited number of participants. Anyone interested can register at info@landesmuseum-brandenburg.de or by phone at 03381 / 410 41 12 (Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Please note that the event is only partially barrier-free. The Archaeological State Museum can be found at Neustädtische Heidestraße 28, 14776 Brandenburg an der Havel, and is an absolute must for anyone interested in historical experiences.