Marien-Kapelle

Gazing at the Marien-Kapelle, imagine the weight of history held within these walls. The Marien-Kapelle, a tranquil sanctuary, stands connected to St. Hedwig Hospital in Berlin’s heart. This chapel, more than just a place of worship, serves the Borromäus sisters, hospital staff, and patients. It remains open throughout the day, offering solace and a moment of reflection. The Marien-Kapelle’s story began in 1851. Alongside the main hospital building, the chapel was constructed and completed in 1854. Architect Vinzenz Statz designed this neo-gothic gem, which protrudes distinctly from the main structure. Its compact design allows for only a few large, high-placed windows, adding to its unique charm. A slender, hexagonal tower graces the southeast corner, topped with a pyramid roof. Inside, a carved figure of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus graces the altar. Originally, a Pietà also stood there. However, it has since found a new home in a window niche near the main staircase of the hospital. Both figures, originating from the mid-18th century, add a touch of history to their respective locations. The Marien-Kapelle’s interior boasts wooden pews. Arranged in two parallel rows of eight, they offer seating for about 150 worshippers. The walls and ceilings once displayed vibrant colors. Berlin church painter J. P. Nowag adorned them in 1874 based on designs by Cologne artist Kleinert. Sadly, these colorful designs were painted over during a late 20th-century renovation. A four-part, ornately decorated window dominates the consecrated east wall above the altar. This window, set within an interwoven pointed arch, depicts the symbolic “Eye of Providence”. Below, a simple altar table, ambo, and a wooden crucifix create a space for worship. A small organ resides in the transept’s apse. A waist-high wooden wall, embellished with leaf garlands and inscriptions, separates it from the main chapel area. A wrought-iron chandelier hangs from the vaulted ceiling. A simple copper holy water font stands in a corner. Colorful panels depicting the Stations of the Cross line the chapel’s side walls. The floor features mosaic tiles by Villeroy & Boch. In the aisle, these tiles form a carpet design, symbolizing the four elements: fire (“Ignis”), water (“Aqua”), air (“Aer”), and earth (“Terra”). Mosaics near the altar area depict the Evangelists through their symbols and Jesus Christ. In the entrance area, several pictures hang, including one of the Good Shepherd and another of St. Hedwig, the patron saint of the healthcare facility. Portraits of ten Mother Superiors of the Borromäus Order from the 19th and 20th centuries also grace the walls. The Marien-Kapelle continues to offer solace and spiritual nourishment. Its history is interwoven with that of St. Hedwig Hospital. It stands as a testament to faith and resilience, inviting all who enter to find a moment of peace.