“For the comfort of frail and poor abandoned people.” That was the purpose of the Siechenhaus chapels like the Kapelle Siechenhaus in Lübeck. These houses and chapels served a vital role in medieval society. They provided care for the sick. They offered solace to the afflicted.
The Kapelle Siechenhaus and similar institutions were typically founded between the 13th and 15th centuries. They began as charitable hospitals. These were established through donations. In 1420, Henning Rene, also known as Stonehavere, a citizen of Lübeck, donated six pairs of shoes and his hop garden to the Siechenhaus in Berkenthin. This act of generosity highlights the community support for these institutions.
Kapelle Siechenhaus were often located outside the main towns. Each Siechenhaus included a chapel. These chapels were usually dedicated to Saint Jürgen. Saint George was a heroic knight. He was believed to slay dragons. Lepers adopted him as their patron saint. They hoped he would fight and defeat leprosy.
Unfortunately, there are no surviving records detailing the appearance of the Kapelle Siechenhaus. However, it is believed the Kapelle Siechenhaus and chapel were depicted on the Stiten Map of 1609. The chapel was likely a small brick building like those in Gronau or Dassow.
As leprosy declined in the mid-15th century, these hospitals were repurposed. They became almshouses. In 1590, the Siechenhaus in Berkenthin was noted as being very dilapidated. By 1655, an “Olde Anna” from the Siechenhaus was mentioned in church records. She likely lived there due to poverty. The Siechenhaus still stood and served as an almshouse at that time.
The Kapelle Siechenhaus and its counterparts provide insight into medieval social welfare. These institutions offered refuge. They provided spiritual comfort. They underscore the importance of community support for the vulnerable.