Ruethstein

Hidden on the southeastern edge of Flensburg, the Ruethstein whispers tales of boundaries and brides. This massive glacial erratic, the Ruethstein, first appears in records as “Ruetsteine” in 1558. But its story likely begins earlier, around 1398, when Rude became part of Flensburg. The Ruethstein, marking the town’s edge, also marked where three districts—Husbyharde, Ugglerharde, and Wiedingharde—met. Thus, the Ruethstein also earned the name “Drei-Harden-Stein,” or “Three-Districts-Stone.” Lost to time from 1765 to 1959, the Ruethstein was probably buried during 18th-century land consolidation. Imagine the surprise of its rediscovery! Now, the Ruethstein, once upright, lies split lengthwise. A 1770 document mentions it was cleaved for “profitable reasons.” Examine the stone. You can still see the split. Notice the cross carved into the top. Its purpose is shrouded in mystery, but some believe the Ruethstein served as a “Brautstein,” or bridal stone, in local marriage rituals. Today, the Ruethstein rests near the Martinsstift. It’s a silent witness to centuries of Flensburg’s history.