Marienkirche Lippstadt

Marienkirche Lippstadt, also known locally as Große Marienkirche, stands as a magnificent testament to medieval architecture and the rich history of Lippstadt in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. This Protestant church, with its towering spires and intricate stonework, is not only a place of worship but also a cherished landmark that draws visitors from near and far.

A Glimpse into History

The origins of Marienkirche Lippstadt date back to around 1205, shortly after the founding of Lippstadt. It is believed that construction began on a cross-shaped basilica, with a beam in the northern flank tower dating to around 1200, as confirmed by dendrochronological analysis. The eastern sections of the church were likely built under the influence of the city's founder, Count Bernhard II. The crossing vault, inspired by Angevin Gothic architecture, is one of the earliest examples of this style in Westphalia.

By 1222, the eastern parts of the church were consecrated, and the nave, designed as a stepped hall, was soon completed. The construction continued with the addition of a western tower, complementing the existing eastern towers, and by around 1250, the church was largely finished. From 1478 to 1506, a late Gothic hall choir was added, enhancing the church's grandeur. The baroque dome of the western tower, completed in the second quarter of the 13th century, dates from 1684.

Renovations from 1964 to 1972 restored the floors in the choir and nave to their original levels and uncovered 16th-century vault and wall paintings. Another restoration from 1992 to 1997 further preserved this historic structure. The church's façade, particularly that of the transept, is elaborately decorated with ashlar, while the smooth nave walls are punctuated by round-arched windows on the north side and high pointed arch windows with fish bladder tracery on the south side.

Architectural Marvels

Step inside Marienkirche Lippstadt, and you'll be greeted by a wealth of historical and artistic treasures. One of the highlights is the late Gothic sacrament house from 1256, crafted by a master from Münster. The church also boasts late Gothic wall paintings from around 1250 in the choir, depicting St. Catherine and the death of Mary.

In the northern aisle, you'll find two guardian figures of a Holy Sepulchre from around 1250. The early Baroque high altar, dating from the second half of the 17th century, is a three-story columned retable created by Ernst Romberg and donated by Diederich Epping. It bears the date 1663. Additionally, two Gothic candlestick angels, originally part of a winged altar now housed in the parish church of Hohenbudberg, are attached to the columns leading to the choir.

The choir stalls, crafted in the second half of the 15th century, consist of two rows with a total of 19 seats, adorned with richly decorated cheeks and spandrels. Eight paintings within the church explore the themes of the Last Supper and Redemption, presented in a typically Protestant manner with inscriptions.

In November 2017, two stained glass windows by artist Markus Lüpertz were installed in the western part of the church. These windows include a restoration of the partially destroyed Luther Window from 1883 and a new window created to mark the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. The Reformation Window features an abstract figure symbolizing the reformer in everyone, accompanied by the hymn line Der Himmel geht über allen auf by Wilhelm Willms. The windows were officially unveiled to the congregation on November 12, 2017.

The Majestic Organ

The church's organ, built in 1977 by organ builder Paul Ott and extensively renovated in 1996/1997 by the Karl Schuke Berlin Organ Workshop, is a remarkable instrument. It features 47 registers on three manuals and a pedal, with mechanical playing actions and electric stop actions. The organ's coupling options include I/II, III/II, I/P, II/P, and III/P, allowing for a wide range of musical expression.

The Resonant Bells

Marienkirche Lippstadt is also home to a significant set of seven bronze bells, among the most important in Westphalia. The smallest bell, known as the Marienglocke, is a recast of a bell originally from the 13th century, preserving a piece of the church's early history.

Marienkirche Lippstadt is not just a building; it's a living chronicle of centuries of faith, artistry, and community. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a moment of reflection, a visit to this extraordinary church promises to be a memorable experience. Its soaring spires, intricate details, and serene atmosphere invite you to step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Lippstadt's heritage.