Dorfkirche Ruhlsdorf

Mystery shrouds the Dorfkirche Ruhlsdorf. Why does the first layer of fieldstones appear so unusually large? And why are the stones at different heights, only finding a common level with the second layer of much smaller stones? The Dorfkirche Ruhlsdorf whispers tales of ingenuity and resilience. Perched atop a small hill beside the estate pond, at the eastern edge of the village green, the Dorfkirche Ruhlsdorf has witnessed centuries of Ruhlsdorf’s history. This unplastered fieldstone structure, with its saddle roof and two bat dormers, dates back to the late 13th century. The church’s simple gray-painted wooden ceiling contrasts sharply with the exposed beams and painted flat ceiling of the choir. Notice the absence of an apse, replaced by a plain east wall with three windows. The west tower, a bright plastered addition with four sound arcades, was constructed around 1759, as indicated by the date above the western portal. Crowned with a sphere, weather vane, and star, this tower also houses the entrance to the patron’s lodge. A fiery twist of fate struck on July 21, 1783, when lightning destroyed the tower. It was then faithfully rebuilt by Peter Eichelkraut, a citizen of Teltow. The enlarged arched windows of the choir and nave hint at later modifications. Originally, these windows were much narrower and featured rounded arches. One such original window remains on the north side of the nave, and two others grace the east wall. A cross-shaped opening pierces the gable, while two bricked-up windows remain visible on the south side of the nave and the side of the choir. Adding another layer of intrigue is a round-arched niche in the choir wall. The north annex and vestibule, along with an organ gallery and heating cellar, appeared in 1929 and 1930. During this period, the upper part of the tower was also completely renewed. In 1931, two consecration crosses were discovered, their red and white disc shapes adorning the choir and southern nave wall. More recent renovations include the 1984 refurbishment of the north vestibule, the 2002 restoration of the pulpit, and the 2004 replacement of damaged roof tiles, along with updates to the eaves cornices and lightning protection. Finally, in 2005, the interior, pews, and doors were repainted in a simple light gray. Inside the Dorfkirche Ruhlsdorf, a brick floor leads to the imposing round chancel arch between the nave and choir, lending a Romanesque feel. This contrasts with the early Gothic style of the windows. A baroque connecting arch, now clad in wood, links the tower and the nave. The east side features a wood-paneled sacramental niche, accessible through an old wooden door.