Johanniterkapelle, Medieval monastery in Saterland, Germany
Johanniterkapelle is a medieval religious building near the Sagter Ems river in Bokelesch that reflects the architectural style of the Knights Hospitaller order. The structure preserves the key features of this monastic tradition in its layout and design.
The monastery was founded in the 13th century by the Johanniter order from Burgsteinfurt and became an important religious site in the region. In 1587, the last residents departed, marking the end of centuries of active religious life.
The chapel served as a religious center for a mixed community of monks and nuns who balanced spiritual duties with farm work. You can still sense how closely faith and daily labor were intertwined in this place.
The building is well-preserved and can be viewed from the outside, with the riverside setting providing a calm surrounding area. Regular religious services are held here if you wish to attend any gatherings.
A cross-shaped opening near the entrance allowed excluded individuals to watch altar ceremonies from outside without entering the main chapel. This small detail reveals how thoughtfully the medieval design considered those unable to fully participate.
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