View of Church from market square
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St. Mary's Church Marienkirche

4.5
·3k reviews·Lübeck, Germany

A magnificent Brick Gothic church, a symbol of Lübeck's resilience, renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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View of Church from market square

St. Mary's Church Marienkirche

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A magnificent Brick Gothic church, a symbol of Lübeck's resilience, renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history.

4.5
(3k reviews)

"The architecture of this once church is beautiful. The copper roofs were exquisite."

Vertical photo
TIP

Don't miss the legend! 😈

Ask about the devil's legend; it's a fascinating story tied to the church's construction.

Worth the entry fee! 💰

The 4 Euro entry fee is highly recommended for the full experience and stunning views.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gothic Architecture

Gothic Architecture

Main Nave

Marvel at the soaring brick Gothic architecture, a testament to medieval craftsmanship and resilience.

The Devil's Legend

The Devil's Legend

Exterior/Interior

Uncover the intriguing legend of the devil's involvement in the church's construction.

Copper Roofs

Copper Roofs

Exterior View

Admire the distinctive copper roofs, a beautiful adaptation that replaced earlier wooden structures.

Organ Concerts

Organ Concerts

Main Hall

Experience the powerful sound of the organ, with concerts often filling the vast space with awe-inspiring music.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Marienkirche

Marienkirche is a popular attraction, so consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds. Weekday mornings or late afternoons are often less busy. Check for special events or services, as these can impact visitor access and experience.

Entry Fees and Donations

While entry to Marienkirche is free for prayer, a small fee (around 4 Euros) is requested for general visits to explore its architecture and history. Donations are highly appreciated and contribute to the upkeep of this magnificent structure.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light on architecture
Crowd
Medium
When
During organ concerts
Why
Immersive musical experience
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Der Teufel und die Marienkirche in Lübeck #lübeck #teufel #sage #legende teufelssage der Marienkirche in Lübeck, welche Kirche erbaute der Teufel, sagen vom Teufel, deutsche Legenden
@schatten_spuren
5.4K likes • 150.5K views

Don't miss the legend! 😈

Ask about the devil's legend; it's a fascinating story tied to the church's construction. TikTok

Worth the entry fee! 💰

The 4 Euro entry fee is highly recommended for the full experience and stunning views. Reddit

Ungewohnt leise, aber mit Gänsehaut-Garantie! 🎶 Am 22.06. sind wir wieder ab 10:00 Uhr beim Volksfestgottesdienst in der Marienkirche dabei✨ #lübecksfreibeutermukke #gugge #Lübeck #volksfest
@freibeutermukke
850 likes • 19.5K views
Gdańsk, Poland View from St. Mary's Church ⠀ Polish: Bazylika Mariacka, German: St. Marienkirche ⠀ is a brick gothic catholic church located in central Gdańsk, Poland. ⠀ 🇷🇺 Гданьск, Польша Вид с базилики Вознесения пресвятой Девы Марии ⠀ Кирпичная церковь в готическом стиле находится в центре города. Обязательно поднимитесь наверх, чтобы увидеть весь город. Подъем займёт минут 15-20. ⠀ #churches #...
anna_lless
332 likes • 6.3K views

Photography is encouraged 📸

Capture the grandeur of the architecture, but be mindful of ongoing services. Instagram

Check for events 🎉

Look out for special services or concerts like the Volksfestgottesdienst for a unique visit. TikTok

Custom sketchy drawing of St. Mary’s church in Lübeck for @otiliut made by @gabrielbslg_tattoo ✏️ #marienkirche #lübeck #marienkirchelübeck #sketchy #tattoo #sketchytattoo #architecturaldrawing #churchsketch #iasitattoo #tatuajeiasi #stmaryschurch #whipshadingtattoo #whipshading #crochiu #sketchdrawing #churchdrawing
inkcultura_studio
46 likes • 1.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Don't miss the legend! 😈

Ask about the devil's legend; it's a fascinating story tied to the church's construction. TikTok

Worth the entry fee! 💰

The 4 Euro entry fee is highly recommended for the full experience and stunning views. Reddit

Photography is encouraged 📸

Capture the grandeur of the architecture, but be mindful of ongoing services. Instagram

Check for events 🎉

Look out for special services or concerts like the Volksfestgottesdienst for a unique visit. TikTok

Wear comfy shoes 👟

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the vast interior.

What Travellers Say

4.5
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise St. Mary's Church Marienkirche for its breathtaking architecture and historical significance, calling it a 'life-changing' and 'most beautiful building.' Many highlight the impressive scale, intricate details, and the captivating atmosphere, especially during organ concerts. While the requested donation is seen as well worth the experience, some note the lack of on-site restrooms as a minor inconvenience.

"The architecture of this once church is beautiful. The copper roofs were exquisite as Germans moved away from wooden roofs."

C Neon

"I visited Marienkirche in Lübeck, Germany. The church is astoundingly beautiful with impressive architecture and great views. The entry fee was 4 Euros, but the experience is absolutely worth it. It’s a great visual treat, though there are no toilets inside. This is a must-visit place in Lübeck, and I highly recommend it!"

Rakesh J

"life changing. the most beautiful building I have ever seen. and I have visited a lot of churches.

though under renovation and with a pained past, this is a must visit for Luebeck.

donations to the space are requested in the amount of 5 euro, and worth every penny.

grandiose, colourful, full of life and death and it is all captivating.

the organ concert I caught the tail end of nearly caused me a stroke - in a good way."

Arty Bee

What People Like

Stunning Gothic architecture
Impressive scale and detail
Captivating historical atmosphere

What People Dislike

No restrooms inside

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Marienkirche is centrally located in Lübeck's old town. You can easily reach it by public transport or on foot if you're staying nearby. Parking can be challenging in the historic center, so consider public transport or a park-and-ride option. Reddit

The coordinates for St. Mary's Church Marienkirche in Lübeck are approximately 53.867752490689185, 10.684998240488543. Reddit

Yes, Lübeck has a good public transport network. Several bus lines stop near the city center, making it easy to access Marienkirche. Check local transport schedules for the most convenient routes. Reddit

Parking in Lübeck's historic center can be limited and expensive. There are several parking garages available, but it's often recommended to use public transport or park on the outskirts and walk. Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant walk from Lübeck Hauptbahnhof to Marienkirche, taking about 15-20 minutes. The route is well-signposted and takes you through charming parts of the city. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Marienkirche for prayer is free. However, for general visits to explore the architecture and historical significance, a donation of around 4 Euros is requested. Reddit

Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but the requested donation is generally considered very reasonable for the experience. It's always worth inquiring at the entrance if you believe you might qualify for any concessions. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially around holidays or for special events. It's best to check the official website or contact the church directly for the most up-to-date information. TikTok

Yes, you can visit for prayer during services. However, for general sightseeing, it's advisable to visit outside of service times to avoid disruption and to fully appreciate the space. Reddit

Advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors. You can usually pay the requested donation upon arrival. However, for group tours, it's advisable to inquire about booking procedures. Reddit

🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find stunning Gothic architecture, impressive altars, and historical artifacts. Don't miss the 'Dance of Death' fresco and the tomb of Bishop Nikolaus von Kues. The sheer scale and beauty are captivating. Reddit

While there isn't a strict dress code, it's a place of worship, so modest attire is appreciated. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Reddit

Unfortunately, there are no toilets inside the church itself. Visitors are advised to use facilities before or after their visit. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's important to be respectful, especially during services. Avoid using flash photography, which can be disruptive. Instagram

The main areas of the church are generally accessible, but some parts might have stairs or uneven surfaces. It's advisable to contact the church in advance if you have specific mobility concerns. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, there are no dining facilities within St. Mary's Church Marienkirche itself. However, the surrounding area of Lübeck's old town is filled with numerous cafes, bakeries, and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Reddit

Near Marienkirche, you can find traditional German cuisine, including hearty dishes and local specialties. Lübeck is also famous for its marzipan, so be sure to try some treats from local confectioneries. Reddit

It's generally not recommended to consume food or drinks inside the church out of respect for the sacred space. It's best to finish any snacks or beverages before entering. Reddit

Yes, you can find more affordable options like bakeries for sandwiches and pastries, or casual eateries offering daily specials. Exploring the side streets can often lead to hidden gems. Reddit

Lübeck has many charming cafes. Look for local coffee shops in the vicinity of Marienkirche for a relaxing break with a good cup of coffee and perhaps a slice of cake. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior offers stunning views from various angles, especially with the Lübeck skyline. Inside, focus on the grand nave, stained glass windows, and architectural details. The tower views, if accessible, are also spectacular. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical buildings due to privacy and safety regulations. It's highly unlikely to be permitted. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon offers beautiful natural light that enhances the brickwork and architectural details. Golden hour can create dramatic shadows and highlights. Instagram

Definitely focus on the intricate brickwork, the soaring arches, the detailed altars, and the unique copper roofs. The 'Dance of Death' fresco is also a striking subject. Instagram

Absolutely! Many artists find inspiration here. The church's form lends itself well to sketches and artistic interpretations, as seen in some tattoo designs. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Marienkirche offers a grand scale that can capture children's imaginations. The sheer size of the church and the intriguing legend of the devil can make for a memorable story. While there are no specific play areas, the vast open space inside allows for a sense of wonder. Be sure to manage expectations regarding facilities, as there are no restrooms inside. TikTokReddit

Consider focusing on the visual aspects – the tall ceilings, the colorful windows, and the unique architecture. The story of the devil's pact is a great way to engage younger minds. Visiting during less crowded times will make the experience more enjoyable for families. TikTok

🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by history and architecture, Marienkirche is a must-visit. Its status as a prime example of Brick Gothic architecture, its role in the Hanseatic League, and its dramatic wartime destruction and subsequent reconstruction offer a rich narrative. Reddit

Take your time to explore the details of the construction, the historical artifacts within, and the stories behind its survival. The 'Dance of Death' fresco and the architectural innovations like the copper roofs are particularly noteworthy. Reddit

🙏 Spiritual Seekers

As an active place of worship, Marienkirche offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere for those seeking quiet reflection. You can attend services for free, providing an opportunity to experience the church's sacred function. Reddit

The grandeur of the architecture and the centuries of prayer and contemplation within its walls can create a profound sense of peace and connection. It's a place where history, art, and spirituality converge.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Symbol of Lübeck's Resilience

St. Mary's Church (Marienkirche) in Lübeck is more than just a beautiful building; it's a powerful symbol of the city's history and resilience. Originally built in the 13th and 14th centuries, it was one of the largest brick churches in the world at the time. Its imposing Gothic architecture, characterized by its twin towers and soaring nave, dominated the Lübeck skyline and served as a model for many other churches in the Baltic region. The church was a central hub for religious and civic life in the Hanseatic city for centuries. Reddit

Tragically, Marienkirche suffered severe damage during an Allied bombing raid in March 1942, which devastated much of Lübeck's historic center. The church's vaults collapsed, and the interior was largely destroyed. However, the resilient spirit of Lübeck shone through in the extensive reconstruction efforts that began after World War II. The church was meticulously rebuilt, preserving its original grandeur and architectural integrity, a testament to the city's determination to reclaim its heritage. Reddit

Today, Marienkirche stands as a magnificent example of Gothic brick architecture and a poignant reminder of the past. Visitors are often struck by its sheer scale, the intricate details of its construction, and the palpable sense of history within its walls. The church continues to be an active place of worship and a significant cultural landmark, drawing visitors from around the globe who come to admire its beauty and learn about its storied past. Reddit

The Devil's Pact: A Lübeck Legend

One of the most captivating tales associated with St. Mary's Church Marienkirche is the legend of the devil's pact. According to the story, when the church builders were struggling to complete the towering structure, the devil offered his assistance in exchange for the soul of the first person to enter the church upon its completion. The clever builders, however, devised a plan to outsmart him. TikTok

Instead of a human, they sent a rooster into the church first. Enraged at being tricked, the devil is said to have thrown himself from the highest tower, leaving behind a mark or a stain that can still be seen today (though this is often debated or attributed to other causes). This legend adds a layer of mystique and folklore to the already impressive church, making it a point of fascination for many visitors. TikTok

This tale is a classic example of how local folklore often intertwines with historical landmarks, adding cultural depth and intrigue. It's a story that has been passed down through generations and continues to be a popular anecdote shared with visitors exploring the church and its surroundings. TikTok

Architectural Marvels and Artistic Details

The architectural grandeur of St. Mary's Church Marienkirche is undeniable. Its construction in brick, a common material in the Baltic region, allowed for immense scale and intricate detailing. The soaring vaults, pointed arches, and ribbed ceilings create a sense of awe and verticality, drawing the eye upwards towards the heavens. The twin towers, though different in height, contribute to its iconic silhouette against the Lübeck skyline. Reddit

Inside, visitors can discover a wealth of artistic treasures. The 'Dance of Death' fresco, a medieval memento mori, is a particularly striking and somber piece that reflects the anxieties of the time. Elaborate altars, intricate carvings, and beautiful stained-glass windows further enhance the church's aesthetic appeal. The sheer volume of detail and craftsmanship is a testament to the skill of medieval artisans. Instagram+1

Beyond the visual splendor, the church is renowned for its magnificent organ. The powerful sound produced by this instrument can fill the vast space, creating an unforgettable auditory experience. Catching a glimpse of an organ concert, even a brief one, is often cited as a highlight by visitors, adding another dimension to the appreciation of this historic edifice. TikTok

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