St. Nicholas Church, Stralsund
Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
St. Nicholas Church, located in the historic center of Stralsund, Germany, is the oldest of the city's three major parish churches and a prime example of Brick Gothic architecture influenced by northern French cathedral patterns. Dedicated in 1279 to Saint Nicholas of Myra, the patron saint of sailors, it served not only as a place of worship but also as the council church where city meetings, legal proceedings, and ambassador receptions took place. Its construction began in 1234 as a hall church and was later rebuilt as a basilica inspired by St. Mary's Church in Lübeck. The church features two equally high Gothic towers, with the southern tower crowned by a Baroque dome after a fire in 1662. The interior once held 56 altars, reflecting the city's wealth, many of which were removed during the Reformation's iconoclastic events in 1525. The high altar, crafted around 1480, depicts the Passion of Christ and remains a centerpiece despite wartime damages. The church is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stralsund's old town and remains open for visitors and worshippers, offering a glimpse into the city's medieval past and architectural heritage.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to visit St. Nicholas Church between Monday and Saturday from 10:00 to 16:00 for sightseeing and quiet reflection. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. The church offers a unique experience best enjoyed during quieter hours to appreciate its architectural details and historical atmosphere. Discounts may be available for groups, students, and seniors. Check the official website or contact the parish office for current service times and special events.
Interesting facts
- •St. Nicholas Church was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2002 as part of Stralsund's historic center.
- •The church originally had 56 altars, reflecting the city's wealth before many were removed during the Reformation's iconoclastic events.
- •The southern tower is 102.6 meters tall, with 58 meters made of brick masonry, and features a Baroque dome added after a fire in 1662.
- •The church houses a golden frieze with 50 coats of arms of city council members from the 16th and 17th centuries.
- •During World War II, the high altar was removed and stored for protection but was partially damaged and later restored.
- •The church's bell ensemble includes three bronze bells in the southern tower, one cast in the Baroque period by Johann Gottfried Wosaeck.
History
Construction of St.
Nicholas Church began in 1234 following Stralsund's acquisition of city rights, originally planned as a hall church with a tower.
After 1270, it was rebuilt as a basilica modeled after St.
Mary's Church in Lübeck, featuring an ambulatory and multiple chapels.
The western towers were constructed starting in 1300, with the southern tower completed in the early 15th century and topped with a Baroque dome after a 1662 fire.
The church transitioned to an Evangelical Lutheran congregation in 1524 amid the Reformation, which led to the removal of many altars during the 1525 iconoclastic events.
It suffered damage during American bombing in 1944 but was repaired starting in 1947.
Today, it stands as a testament to Stralsund's medieval history and religious transformation.
Place Guide
High Altarcirca 1480
Crafted around 1480 by a local sculptor, the high altar features detailed carvings depicting the Passion of Christ, with painted wings illustrating scenes from the lives of Saint Anne and Mary. It was partially destroyed during World War II but restored and now includes a crucifix by Johann-Peter Hinz from 1997.
Twin Gothic Towers1300 - early 15th century
The church's two equally tall Gothic towers, with a square base, were constructed starting in 1300. The southern tower reaches 102.6 meters and was topped with a Baroque dome after a 1662 fire, while the northern tower has a temporary roof.
Golden Coat of Arms Frieze16th - 17th century
A decorative golden frieze running along the upper middle nave, featuring 50 coats of arms of Stralsund city council members dating from the 16th and 17th centuries, symbolizing the city's governance and heritage.
Blower's Choir and Small Organ Choir1505
Late Gothic choir areas featuring paintings of Jesus and the twelve apostles, with inscriptions crediting their creation to 'Irhan Schulte van Valckenberch' in 1505. These choirs reflect the church's rich musical and artistic heritage.
Contact
Phone: 01573 0042617
