Wolkendorf

Wolkendorf, situated not far from the Königstein mountains, most likely derives its name from the Slavic word Wolk, meaning "Wolf". In the depths of the Middle Ages, when the world was still quiet and not as bustling as today, wolves would certainly come down from the mountains from time to time and carry off one or more sheep.

In the centre of the village stands the well-preserved fortified church. The oldest part is the choir of the church, which dates back to the second half of the 13th century. It was a transitional period from Romanesque to early Gothic.

The current defensive complex with its storerooms was first built in 1521. But in 1611, everything was to be razed to the ground when the Hungarian prince Gabriel Bathory brought turmoil to the Transylvanian world.

With his mercenary troops, the prince attacked the Burzenland farming communities before turning to the siege of Kronstadt. According to the chronicle, only 5 people survived this raid, hidden in a bread oven.

After this severe setback, new settlers had to be recruited so that the abandoned farmsteads could be worked again, and the fortified church had to be rebuilt. Many families likely came from the Hermannstadt (Sibiu) area. This is still recalled today by the common family name "Hermannstädter" in Wolkendorf.

In 1632 the walls were rebuilt and in 1664 the church. The tower was reconstructed in 1794. Today the congregation numbers just under 120 souls. Alongside the active community life, tourist services are also offered during the summer months.

Author: Pfarrer Uwe Seidner
Date: 03.10.2017

For photos from Wolkendorf, please click: Photos from Wolkendorf