St. Mary's church Strausberg

St. Mary's Church in Strausberg, locally known as Marienkirche, stands as a beacon of medieval architecture and historical significance amidst the charming town of Strausberg in Brandenburg, Germany. As the oldest and tallest building in the town, this architectural gem has witnessed centuries of history, offering visitors a glimpse into the past with its impressive structure and rich heritage.

The Location

Nestled in the heart of Strausberg, St. Mary's Church is conveniently located on Predigerstraße, a quaint side street branching off from the bustling Große Straße. Its proximity to the eastern shore of the serene Straussee and the remnants of the old town wall makes it a perfect starting point for exploring the historical and natural beauty of Strausberg.

The Architecture

St. Mary's Church is a striking example of the transitional style between Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Constructed from a mix of fieldstones and bricks, the church is designed as a three-aisled pillar basilica, exuding an air of solemn simplicity. One of the most notable features of the church is its massive, towering structure, which dominates the skyline of Strausberg. Adjacent to the choir on the south side, you'll find the quaint Annenkapelle, adding a touch of charm to the overall architectural ensemble.

A Journey Through Time

The history of St. Mary's Church dates back to the mid-13th century, around the time when many settlements in the Barnim region were being officially recognized as towns. Strausberg, upon receiving its town rights, was endowed with a parish, leading to the construction of the church around 1250. Over the centuries, the church has endured numerous challenges, including devastating fires in 1341/42 and 1432, which led to significant renovations and reconstructions.

In 1448, the church underwent a major transformation, including the addition of a choir with a star vault, the cross-ribbed vaulting of the nave's originally flat roof, and the installation of a bell chamber and a round-arched window in the tower. The exquisite vault paintings that adorn the church's ceiling were also completed during this period.

The church's tower received a baroque wooden extension with a lantern, ball, and cross in 1747, reaching a height of 50 meters. However, this addition was removed in 1922. Despite these changes, the church has retained much of its medieval character, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.

Inside St. Mary's Church

Step inside St. Mary's Church, and you'll be greeted by an array of historical and artistic treasures. The baroque wooden pulpit, crafted at the beginning of the 18th century, stands as a testament to the church's rich artistic heritage. The highlight of the interior is undoubtedly the winged altar, carved from rosewood in the 16th century. The central panel features a radiant figure of Mary with the Christ Child, flanked by various saints. The wings of the altar depict the twelve apostles, adding to the altar's grandeur.

The church's vaulted ceilings are adorned with extensive late Gothic paintings, providing a visual feast for visitors. Another intriguing feature is the epitaph of Andreas Angelus, a chronicler of medieval Brandenburg's history, which adds a personal touch to the church's historical narrative.

Unique to St. Mary's Church is the presence of a penitential cell, a rare feature in parish churches, offering a glimpse into the church's role in the community's spiritual life.

The Organ

Music lovers will be delighted by the church's impressive organ history. The first organ, a small positive, was installed in 1534. Over the centuries, the organ underwent several transformations and restorations. The current organ, built by W. Sauer Orgelbau Frankfurt (Oder) in 1929, features 37 registers and 2,460 pipes, spread across three manual works and a pedal. The organ's case, which has been preserved and expanded over the years, adds to the church's musical legacy.

The Bells

St. Mary's Church boasts a five-bell chime, comprising two bronze bells from 1928 and 1950, and three steel bells from 1960. The steel bells, originally cast for St. Matthew's Parish in Berlin-Tiergarten, were gifted to St. Mary's congregation in 1989 and have been housed in the tower since 1994. While the bronze bells are rung electrically, the steel bells are rung by hand, a tradition that continues to this day.

In conclusion, St. Mary's Church in Strausberg is not just a place of worship but a living museum of history and art. Its towering presence, rich history, and stunning interior make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the charming town of Strausberg. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful place to reflect, St. Mary's Church offers a unique and enriching experience.