Did you know that St Konrad in Dortmund holds a secret? This isn’t just any church. It’s linked to a fascinating tale of faith family and a surprising military victory. St Konrad’s story begins not in Dortmund itself but in the nearby town of Hörde. There a remarkable man named Konrad von der Mark made his mark on history.
Konrad wasn’t always a religious figure. He was a knight a canon at St Gereon in Cologne and a provost at Tongeren. He even served as a Dompropst in Münster. But Konrad surprised everyone. In 1326 he gave up all his church offices. Why? He wanted to marry Elisabeth von Kleve. Their marriage needed papal approval because they were related. The Pope granted it.
Without church income Konrad inherited Hörde from his family. His brother Adolf was at war with rebellious cities. Konrad joined him displaying a surprising military talent. He was knighted in 1328 and won a major battle near Sint-Truiden. Around 1335 Konrad left military life. He returned to Westphalia with Elisabeth.
Together Konrad and Elisabeth decided to build a monastery in Hörde. It was to be for the Claretian order housing 40 nuns. Pope Benedict XII approved their plan. The foundation stone was laid in May 1339. Adolf Konrad’s brother the Bishop of Liège attended the ceremony. The monastery was completed in September 1341.
Later in life Konrad and Elisabeth separated. Konrad joined the Franciscan order in Dortmund as a novice. Elisabeth became abbess of the Clarenberg monastery she and Konrad founded. Konrad died in 1353. Elisabeth died eight years later. Both were buried at Clarenberg. The exact location of their graves is unknown.
So next time you stand before St Konrad remember its connection to this remarkable couple. Their story is woven into the very fabric of this church. It’s a reminder that faith family and even war can intertwine in unexpected ways. Their legacy continues to resonate in Dortmund a testament to their enduring spirit and devotion.