St. Marien

St. Marien Church in Lünen, located in the North Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany, is a stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture and a place of deep historical and cultural significance. This Roman Catholic parish church, situated in the Lünen-Nord district, has been a beacon of faith and community for centuries. The church's rich history, architectural beauty, and spiritual importance make it a must-visit destination for tourists and pilgrims alike.

The History of St. Marien Church

The origins of St. Marien Church date back to the early Middle Ages, with its roots firmly planted in the tradition of Marian pilgrimage. The first wooden chapel or church on this site was likely established during the time of Charlemagne. By 1018, a stone church had been built, serving as the parish church for the then-South Lünen area, which included the communities of Alstedde, Nordlünen, and Wethmar.

Throughout its history, St. Marien has witnessed numerous events and transformations. In 1254, the original Romanesque church was destroyed during the Battle of Wülferichskamp. The church was later rebuilt in Gothic style, with only the Romanesque tower remaining. By the 1260s, the church housed a revered image of the Madonna and Child, which became the focal point of Marian pilgrimage.

During the early 14th century, the Counts of the Mark gained control over Lünen. Despite the relocation of the town to the southern bank of the Lippe River by Count Adolf II in 1336, the church on the northern bank retained its significance due to the ongoing Marian pilgrimage, first documented in 1319. Remarkably, St. Marien remained a Catholic stronghold even during the Reformation, when most other churches in the County of Mark converted to Protestantism.

The church faced challenges during the 18th century, including a temporary closure ordered by King Frederick William I of Prussia in 1729. However, it reopened in 1735. The industrialization of the 19th century brought rapid growth to Lünen, necessitating the construction of a new, larger church. The current neo-Gothic basilica, designed by Benedictine architect Wilhelm Rincklake, was built between 1894 and 1896 and consecrated by Bishop Hermann Dingelstad.

Architectural Splendor

St. Marien Church is a masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture, following the classic basilica layout with a three-aisled nave, transept, choir, and a 5/8 apse at the eastern end. The church is flanked by two side chapels and features a prominent square bell tower with a slender spire, rising to a height of 83 meters, making it one of the tallest church towers in Germany.

The interior of the church is equally impressive, with ribbed vaults, clerestory windows, pointed arches, tracery windows, columns, and services. The contrast between the dark structural elements and the light-colored surfaces creates a striking visual effect. The church's dimensions are equally grand, with a total length of 66 meters.

Notable Features and Treasures

St. Marien Church houses several significant artifacts and artworks, many of which were carried over from the original church. One of the most revered pieces is the crowned wooden sculpture of the Madonna and Child, created around 1260-1270 and venerated as a miraculous image. The church also features a 14th-century triumphal cross and a figural baptismal font from the same period.

The neo-Gothic pulpit, crafted in 1855 and adorned with figures of Christ and the four Evangelists, was converted into an altar in 2003. The Marian Chapel displays historical votive offerings, and a life-sized statue of Christ in a blessing posture, created by sculptor Heinrich Bäumer Sr. in 1933, stands before the choir. This statue commemorates the members of the parish who died in World War I.

The church's stained glass windows, created by glass artist Hubert Spierling between 1991 and 2003, depict biblical scenes of life, death, sin, and redemption. The windows in the Marian Chapel were designed by Wilhelm Rengshausen.

The Organs and Bells

St. Marien Church is home to two magnificent organs. The main organ, built by the Stockmann brothers from Werl between 1996 and 1998, features 45 registers on three manuals and a pedal, with mechanical action and electric stop action. The choir organ, created by Henk and Gerrit Klop in 1983, was acquired by the church in 2005.

The church's bell tower houses a four-bell chime made of cast steel, installed in 1922 and tuned to the notes h°-d′-e′-fis′.

A Living Legacy

St. Marien Church is not just a historical monument; it is a living, breathing part of the Lünen community. Despite the challenges and changes over the centuries, the church remains a central place of worship and pilgrimage. In March 2023, the parish council developed a sustainable property concept to ensure the church's future as the central church in the St. Marien parish and the pastoral area of Lünen-Selm(Cappenberg)-Werne.

Visitors to St. Marien Church can explore its rich history, admire its architectural beauty, and experience the spiritual atmosphere that has drawn pilgrims for centuries. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a spiritual seeker, St. Marien Church in Lünen offers a profound and enriching experience.