St. Severini, Medieval church in Kirchwerder, Germany
St. Severini is a church in Kirchwerder featuring a separate wooden bell tower and a cemetery with over 90 sandstone grave markers dating from the 16th to 19th centuries. The graveyard preserves headstones that tell stories about the lives and families of people who lived in this region across several generations.
The church structure dates back to the 13th century, marking early Christian settlement in this area. Major renovations between 1785 and 1791 added a southern annex and barrel vault ceiling, transforming the building's interior appearance.
The interior shows off handmade benches and galleries from the 17th and 18th centuries, revealing the craftsmanship of rural builders from that era. Hat racks stand beside the wooden pews, a practical detail from when men wore formal headwear to church.
The site sits on Kirchenheerweg in Kirchwerder and is surrounded by the cemetery, offering space and quietness for exploration. Comfortable shoes are helpful since visitors navigate pathways and grass areas while viewing the gravestones and buildings.
Local legend tells that the devil once tried to throw the bell tower into the Elbe River, a story that explains why it stands apart from the main church building. Residents share this tale, giving the unusual layout a memorable folklore connection.
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