Martensmann celebrates tradition: Rotspon and love of home in Rehna!

Martensmann celebrates tradition: Rotspon and love of home in Rehna!

The Martensmann, a tradition from Lübeck, is coming, and the anticipation is palpable in the region. This year the tradition of the annual Rotspon transport is particularly celebrated. Stefan Pagel, who has been playing the role of Martensman for eleven years, is looking forward to his second home game in Rehna and already has his hands full preparing the events. The festive series of activities begins in Lübeck on November 7th at 3 p.m., where a farewell ceremony will take place in front of the town hall, followed by a carriage ride. Pagel and the team have already come a long way, as the history of the Martensman dates back to 1520.

Custom says that the people of Lübeck traditionally send a barrel of Rotspon to Schwerin, a duty that not only brings enjoyment but also historical depth. Stefan Pagel explained that the people of Lübeck see the transport as a voluntary gift, while the people of Schwerin see it more as an obligation. This difference in opinion is also reflected in the long tradition, which has existed for 700 years and is closely interwoven with the history of the Lübeck feud and the resulting agreements that regulate wine cuisine between these cities. Lübeck and Lüneburg had to pay 500 guilders annually to the Duke of Mecklenburg.

Festivities in Rehna and about tradition

Pagel, who recently moved to Rehna to enjoy the city, wants to introduce those interested to the story of the Martensman in the monastery courtyard. The honor of the Rotspons, which combines tradition and community in Rehna and the surrounding area, is celebrated there. His partner Bettina Zeise, who works as a night watchman at the Martensmann festival, contributes to the lively atmosphere and shows how deeply the roots of this custom are anchored in the region. On November 8th, the Martensman first visits Schönberg and the Folklore Museum before going to a nursing home in Rehna at 4 p.m. At 5 p.m. there will be a reception in front of the German House, where the celebrations will culminate with a parade and subsequent celebrations in the monastery courtyard.

The historic custom had a long interruption and died out in 1817, but was revived in 1991 on the initiative of the former Prime Minister of Schleswig-Holstein, Björn Engholm. Since 2020, the Martensman and his tradition have even been declared intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO, which reinforces the meaning and feeling even more.

On the following Sunday, November 10th, the Martian will continue his journey to Schwerin and end the three-day festival in the state capital at 3 p.m. Here he will drive through the city center and have an argument in front of the market before the barrel of Rotspon is ceremoniously presented. This brings us full circle and shows once again how tightly woven traditions can enrich communities.