Marienkirche

In the heart of Neubrandenburg, nestled within the picturesque landscape of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, stands the magnificent Marienkirche. This historic church, now known as the Concert Church Neubrandenburg, is a testament to the resilience of time and the enduring beauty of Gothic architecture. With its towering spire, intricate brickwork, and storied past, Marienkirche is a must-visit for anyone exploring this charming German town.

The History of Marienkirche

The origins of Marienkirche date back to shortly after Neubrandenburg's founding in 1248. Initially, a wooden church was erected on a fieldstone foundation, which was later replaced around 1270 by a more durable structure built from granite blocks. The church's chancel, featuring four bays, was completed by the end of the 13th century, with its main altar consecrated in 1298 by the Bishop of Havelberg. The nave and tower followed, with the tower reaching its full height during the 14th century.

Throughout its history, Marienkirche has witnessed numerous events of both local and national significance. In 1523, the first Lutheran preacher was mentioned in Neubrandenburg, and by 1549, the region had fully embraced the Protestant Reformation. The church became a Lutheran place of worship, often hosting multiple pastors. The first superintendent of the Stargard church district, Erasmus Alberus, was appointed in 1552 and was later buried before the church's altar.

Marienkirche endured several calamities over the centuries. In 1591, a storm toppled the church's spire, and in 1614, a city fire inflicted significant damage. The Thirty Years' War brought further destruction in 1631 when Imperial troops committed atrocities within the church. Subsequent lightning strikes and fires in 1655 and 1676 caused additional damage, with the latter event necessitating the removal of the church's vault due to its extensive destruction.

The church underwent significant reconstruction in the early 19th century under the supervision of Friedrich Wilhelm Buttel. This renovation, completed in 1841, gave Marienkirche its current exterior. However, tragedy struck again in 1945 when the church was gutted by fire during the final days of World War II, leaving only the outer walls and tower standing.

Rebirth as a Concert Hall

In the wake of the war, plans to rebuild Marienkirche as a place of worship proved unfeasible. Instead, the city of Neubrandenburg acquired the site in 1975 and began transforming the ruins into a concert hall and art gallery. The project faced numerous challenges, including delays following the reunification of Germany. However, in 1996, a cost-effective design by Finnish architect Pekka Salminen was selected, integrating a larger concert hall within the church's open interior.

Construction was completed in 2001, and on July 13th of that year, the newly christened Concert Church Neubrandenburg hosted its inaugural concert. The Philharmonic Choir of Neubrandenburg, joined by the Neustrelitz Opera Choir and conducted by Gotthard Franke, performed works by Johannes Brahms and Ludwig van Beethoven. The concert hall, with its exceptional acoustics and seating for 850, quickly earned acclaim as a premier venue for classical music.

Architectural Highlights

Marienkirche's architecture is a stunning example of North German brick Gothic style. The church's east gable, constructed between 1292 and 1297, is particularly noteworthy. This intricate facade, featuring a blend of tracery and finials, is considered one of the earliest and finest examples of brick Gothic architecture. The church's tower, reconstructed in the 1980s, once again reaches its original height of 90 meters, making it the tallest structure in Neubrandenburg.

Inside, the church's transformation into a concert hall is a marvel of modern design harmoniously blended with historical elements. The large concert space, open to the church's lofty ceilings, creates an atmosphere of grandeur and reverence. The restoration also included the installation of a new organ, built by Johannes Klais Orgelbau and Karl Schuke Berliner Orgelbauwerkstatt. This impressive instrument, inaugurated in 2017, features 70 registers and 2,852 pipes, offering a rich and versatile sound for performances.

A Cultural Hub

Today, the Concert Church Neubrandenburg is a vibrant cultural hub, hosting around thirty concerts each season by the Neubrandenburg Philharmonic. It is also a key venue for the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Festival, attracting internationally renowned artists and orchestras. The church's tower houses an exhibition on the history of brick Gothic architecture, and visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Neubrandenburg from the tower's open-air balustrade.

Marienkirche's story is one of resilience and renewal. From its medieval origins to its modern role as a concert hall, this remarkable building continues to inspire and captivate all who visit. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or a lover of classical music, Marienkirche offers a unique and enriching experience in the heart of Neubrandenburg.