“A church resurrected,” whispered a voice behind me. I turned to see an old woman, her eyes twinkling. We stood before the Marienkirche in Frankfurt (Oder). This grand church has witnessed centuries of history. The Marienkirche’s story begins in 1253. Construction started shortly after the town was granted its privileges. It served as a university church after Viadrina University was founded in 1506. The Marienkirche boasts a “stained glass bible” from the 14th century. Three chancel windows depict biblical scenes and the legend of the Antichrist on 117 colored panes. Sadly, World War II left the Marienkirche in ruins. Reconstruction began in 1979. The church’s stained-glass windows had quite the journey. They were removed in 1941 for safekeeping. The Soviets then transported them to the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg. They were considered lost until their rediscovery in 1991. Following lengthy negotiations, the windows finally returned to Marienkirche in 2009. The church houses other treasures now displayed in St. Gertraud’s Church. The Marienkirche is more than just bricks and mortar. It stands as a symbol of resilience and a testament to the enduring spirit of Frankfurt (Oder).
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to