The village church in Heiligenhagen is the oldest surviving building in the town. Construction of the single-nave Gothic church began around 1300; its wooden west tower was built in 1692. The church building and the tower added later can therefore be dated to different periods. There is also a war memorial on the main street, which is one of the town’s monuments.

Architecture and furnishings of the village church

The church is built of granite boulders. Both the nave and the chancel have ribbed vaults. The single-nave layout identifies the building type, while the vaulting describes two areas of the church interior in greater detail. Those interested in architectural history can use these features to understand different aspects of the building: its materials, floor plan, and the design of the nave and chancel.

Paintings from the time the church was built have been preserved inside. The altar, dating from around 1450, depicts the Madonna of the Crescent Moon, flanked by four saints; the four Evangelists are shown on its wings. The pulpit dates from 1677 and also depicts the four Evangelists, as well as the Crucifixion. A recurring motif thus connects two furnishings from different periods: the Evangelists appear on both the altar wings and the pulpit.

Hiking route with a possible starting point in Heiligenhagen

The “Heiligenhagen – Hohen Luckow – Satow – Heiligenhagen” hiking route can begin at an informal roadside parking area in Heiligenhagen. This is described as a possible starting point; check the local conditions before setting out.

Satow: Culture and nature

In Satow, the 13th-century ruins of the monastery church, surrounded by a park, define the town center and are considered a local landmark. The old Satow church was built between 1219 and 1224 in a transitional style between Romanesque and Gothic, and is one of the oldest buildings in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Since 1945, the church in Satow has been shared by Protestant and Catholic Christians. Satow therefore offers its own cultural focus, which you can explore alongside Heiligenhagen’s architectural history. The old cemetery around the church ruins in Satow has a park-like character and provides a setting for a range of cultural activities.

Lake Satow is located within the town of Satow and covers 6.8 hectares. Paddle boats and stand-up paddleboards are permitted on the lake; check local rules before using them. The play and adventure trail around the lake is suitable for walks, hikes, and outings with the whole family. Rest areas provide places to take a break. Various stations and information boards tell visitors about the region’s wildlife, plant life, and history. A well-maintained bathing area with a beach is located on the northern shore; it is advisable to check the local conditions before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Bölkow, Rosenhagen, Hohen Luckow, Radegast, Reinshagen.

View the overview of the wider area: Satow.