St. Mary's church, Gothic parish church in Bergen auf Rügen, Germany.
St. Mary's church is a brick structure built in the Gothic style with a central nave, multiple bays, a transept, and detailed architectural features. The red masonry and interior layout showcase typical elements of northern German church construction from this period.
Construction started around 1180 under Prince Jaromar I and the building was consecrated in 1193 as a Benedictine convent, later transforming into a parish church in 1380.
The walls display complete Romanesque paintings from floor to ceiling, making this church in northern Germany one of a kind. Visitors can still see these medieval decorations in their full extent today.
The church is accessible during the warmer months, though specific opening times should be confirmed before planning a visit. Guided tours can be arranged by phone reservation to learn more about the building's history and decoration.
The clock face on the north tower displays 61 minutes instead of 60, a quirk resulting from faulty repairs after a 1983 storm. This unusual feature becomes noticeable when entering the square in front of the building.
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