Mary Magdalene Chapel

The Mary Magdalene Chapel (Maria-Magdalenenkapelle) in Sankt Wendel, Saarland, Germany, stands as a testament to the rich historical tapestry of this northern Saarland town. Known as the oldest building in Sankt Wendel, the chapel was originally constructed in the Gothic style, and its history is as intriguing as it is long.

The Origins of Mary Magdalene Chapel

The exact date of the chapel's construction remains unknown, but it was first documented on September 23, 1318, in an indulgence letter by Daniel, a vicar general of the Metzer Cathedral Chapter. At that time, Sankt Wendel was part of the Diocese of Metz. The chapel likely existed long before this mention, as a document from 1343 indicates its status as a priestly church. This suggests that the chapel was already well-established by the early 14th century.

During a renovation of the older Wendelinus Basilica, the remains of Saint Wendelin were temporarily relocated to the Mary Magdalene Chapel. They rested there in a stone sarcophagus within a floor depression, covered by a richly decorated tomb. When the remains were returned to the rebuilt parish church, the tomb remained in the chapel. In subsequent years, processions with the saint's relics were held from the parish church to the Mary Magdalene Chapel to commemorate this interim resting place.

Significant Milestones and Rebuilding Efforts

The chapel was consecrated in honor of Saint Mary Magdalene by Sybertus, the auxiliary bishop of Metz, on May 26, 1359. It underwent further enhancements on February 2, 1405, with the consecration of a crypt in its cellar vault. The newly established altar was dedicated to the Archangel Michael, the Apostle Matthew, and Saints Anna and Elizabeth. A cemetery behind the chapel was also consecrated on this date.

Tragedy struck in March 1515 when a great fire ravaged Sankt Wendel, destroying 32 half-timbered houses, including the Mary Magdalene Chapel. The chapel was rebuilt in the following years, only to suffer damage again in a fire in 1589. Despite these setbacks, the chapel was restored each time, showcasing the resilience and dedication of the local community.

From Wendelskapelle to Modern Times

In the mid-15th century, the chapel underwent a significant transformation, being referred to as Wendelskapelle. This change likely resulted from a reorganization of the dioceses at the time, with Sankt Wendel being transferred from the Diocese of Metz to the Diocese of Trier, where Saint Wendelin was more venerated.

In 1677, the French systematically destroyed Sankt Wendel, and the fate of the Mary Magdalene Chapel during this period remains unclear. French troops occupied the town again in 1703, using the chapel as quarters while still holding sacred services. The last altarist left the chapel in 1791, and by 1794, following the French Revolution, the bell was removed, and the building was repurposed.

Profanation and Subsequent Uses

In January 1794, French revolutionary troops occupied Sankt Wendel, causing substantial damage to the parish's lands. To compensate for the financial losses, the parish had to take drastic measures, including selling the Mary Magdalene Chapel to the town around 1796. The chapel was converted into a school building in 1802, and the remaining tomb was moved to the parish church (Wendalinus Basilica), where it still resides today. From 1817 to 1823, the chapel served as the seat of the mayor's office, and on October 18, 1824, it became the site of a lyceum (a secondary school), founded by Duke Ernst I of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha.

In 1832, the lyceum was dissolved, and the building was repurposed as a barracks. Parts of the chapel continued to be used as a public elementary school until the early 20th century, while other sections were converted into apartments and rented out by the town.

Modern Restorations and Current Use

In the 1970s, the chapel faced the threat of decay. St. Wendel architect Hanns Schönecker purchased the building and undertook extensive renovations. He converted the upper floors into residential units and designated the ground floor for commercial use. The most authentic part of the building, the old crypt, was preserved in its original form. The former entrance to the crypt was reopened, and the Gothic window frames were restored. The crypt is now used as a historical wine cellar. For decades, the painter Adolf Bender resided in the building.

Today, the Mary Magdalene Chapel stands as a cherished historical landmark in Sankt Wendel, reflecting the town's rich heritage and resilience. Its walls tell stories of faith, destruction, and rebirth, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of this charming German town.