Amidst Dortmund’s bustling heart stands St. Marien, a testament to resilience and faith. This church has witnessed centuries unfold. It stands as Dortmund’s oldest extant inner-city church. Built between 1170 and 1200, St. Marien initially rose in Romanesque style. Its purpose was to serve the town council and its legal functions.
Now, imagine the Hellweg. This main Medieval road bustled with merchants, travelers, and townsfolk. St. Marien was strategically erected on this road. It connected Dortmund to the wider world. Around 1350, St. Marien underwent a transformation. A choir in Gothic architecture was added. It served as inspiration for the Reinoldikirche.
Step inside St. Marien. It is home to remarkable Medieval art. The Berswordtaltar from 1385 catches the eye. It is named after its patron. The Marienaltar by Conrad von Soest from 1420 is also a highlight. It depicts scenes from the life of Mary. The Berswordt-Altar’s central panel shows the Swoon of the Virgin. This imagery was later condemned.
Consider the Marienaltar. Sadly, it only contains fragments of von Soest’s original masterpiece. In 1720, a new reredos was installed. Workmen altered the paintings to fit the new frames. This act resulted in the loss of significant portions of the original artwork.
Since the Reformation, St. Marien has been a Lutheran parish church. World War II brought devastation. Bombs almost completely destroyed the church. But, the Marienaltar and Berswordtaltar had been evacuated to Cappenberg Castle. Thus, they survived the destruction. Reconstruction began right after the war. It was completed in 1959. The swallow’s nest organ was reconstructed. It sits high above the nave in its original position. Johannes Schreiter designed the restored glass windows. Their installation was completed in 1972.
Today, St. Marien serves as a concert venue for sacred music. Its history is rich. Its art is precious. St. Marien stands as a symbol of Dortmund’s enduring spirit. It embodies faith, art, and music. It connects the city to its past.