Kapelle

Deep within the heart of Dortmund, nestled amidst ancient trees, lies the Margarethenkapelle. This unassuming chapel, our smallest and oldest place of worship, holds centuries of stories within its white-plastered walls. The Margarethenkapelle, first mentioned in records in 1348, has served the community of Barop for generations. Originally a subsidiary of the Reinoldikirche in Dortmund, it gained independence in 1655 under Brandenburgian rule. Today, it stands as a protected landmark, a testament to its enduring significance. The chapel, with its flexible seating arrangement, accommodates up to eighty people. It’s a shared space, used not only by our partner congregations, but also by the nearby Ostenberg primary school and even Dortmund’s Technical University. Imagine the echoes of children’s laughter mingling with the hushed reverence of prayer, the murmur of academic discussions blending with the joyous hymns of a wedding ceremony. Margarethenkapelle welcomes them all. The chapel is a popular choice for weddings, drawing couples from near and far. Its intimate setting offers a unique charm, and the hand-rung bell adds a touch of old-world romance. For those mourning loved ones, it provides a more intimate alternative to the Barop cemetery’s Trauerhalle. A small kitchenette and restroom offer comfort and convenience. The chapel has been renovated several times throughout its history. One such renovation unearthed a hidden treasure: a reliquary concealed within the altar. This precious artifact now resides in the secure vaults of the Museum für Kunst und Kulturgeschichte, only returning to the Margarethenkapelle for special occasions. Its presence reminds us of the deep history embedded within these walls, a history that whispers of knights, monks, and the everyday lives of the Barop community. Come, step inside, and let the stories of the Margarethenkapelle embrace you.