In Esgrus, there is plenty to explore, from the architectural and artistic history of St. Mary’s Church to manor farm ensembles, trails and nature spots. This lets you choose different focuses for your stay: church art, cultural events or time outdoors.
St. Mary’s Church: architectural history and features
St. Mary’s Church in Esgrus is a Romanesque fieldstone church dating from the 12th century. Its choir was extended around 1500, and late Gothic vine ornaments adorn the choir vaults. The galleries are also part of the building’s history: since 1725, they have enclosed the nave on its north and west sides. The church tower is 38 metres high.
The apse contains a carved winged altarpiece depicting the Crucifixion. A bronze baptismal font dating from 1619 bears reliefs of eight apostles. The Baroque pulpit from 1681 features painted scenes from the life of Christ. The different periods in which these features were created make them a focus in their own right, alongside the architecture: the choir, vaults and nave each tell a different part of the church’s history.
Frauenhof and other historic monuments
The municipality of Esgrus highlights the manor farm ensembles Brunsholmhof and Frauenhof as particularly impressive sights. The Frauenhof ensemble includes a listed manor house, a gatehouse, an entrance avenue and a row of lime trees. The sequence of buildings and avenue draws attention to the ensemble as a whole, rather than just one building. The churchyard belonging to St. Mary’s Church is also listed, as a garden monument.
Trails and nature spots
A hiking trail leads north from Kirchberg towards Schadelund or Atzbüll. Check local waymarkers before setting out. Another nature spot in Esgrus is a group of thirteen oaks designated as a natural monument. At Osterpforte, the oldest tree is said to be more than 650 years old.
Cultural events and accommodation
The Esgrus local cultural association organises talks, walks and bike rides. It also offers painting workshops, while fitness activities are run as ongoing courses. Concerts are held at St. Mary’s Church. The church is also associated with the activities “Sitting in Silence” and “Light of Peace”. As dates may change, check current announcements in advance.
For travellers getting around by bike or on foot, Kleiner Hof am Meer offers an overnight trekking pitch. It is located in an orchard meadow near a small natural pond. The pitch has an outdoor bathroom with a shower, toilet and washbasin; confirm the facilities and availability before booking. Depending on the season, you can sample herbs from the herb garden.
For journeys around the wider region, buses and NAH.SHUTTLE can be used with the Schleswig-Holstein fare and the Deutschlandticket. Check fares and service information before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Niesgrau, Steinbergkirche, Nieby, Hasselberg, Kronsgaard, Stangheck, Steinberg, Stoltebüll.
For the overarching travel overview: Gelting Bay.
