Rysum organ

The Rysum organ is a pipe instrument with original metalwork made from hammered lead and hinged doors decorated with celestial symbols across its Renaissance-style case. The instrument contains several stops including Praestant, Gedackt, Octave, Sesquialtera, Mixtur, and Trompette, making performances of 15th and 16th-century music possible.

This organ was constructed in 1457 by master craftsman Harmannus from Groningen and underwent major changes in 1513. A restoration brought it back to its 1513 condition in 1959.

This organ reflects the Gothic building tradition that was common throughout the Hanseatic region and shows the shared craftsmanship of the time. Similar instruments can be found in churches between Emden and Norden, revealing how this style connected communities across the area.

Visiting this organ requires entering the church where the instrument is housed and displayed. The best time to visit is during musical performances or services when you can hear it played.

Local farmers once transported the instrument across the frozen Dollart bay from Groningen to pay for its construction. They gave the builder ten of their finest cows as payment for his work.