Mariä Krönung

Mariä Krönung is a Gothic pilgrimage church in Lautenbach with a nave divided into six sections and distinguished by intricately patterned net vaults. A bell tower is attached to the north side of the building, while the interior features 59 stained-glass windows created during the 1480s.

Construction began in 1471 under master builder Hans Hertwig and the church was consecrated in 1483, with final completion in 1488. This rapid completion during the late Gothic period reflects the importance placed on establishing this pilgrimage site.

The name 'Mariä Krönung' refers to the coronation of Mary as Queen of Heaven, a theme that appears throughout the church's artworks. The altar pieces with their figures and paintings reflect how the faithful once understood and experienced this religious devotion.

The church maintains its original Gothic features like the rood loft and windows that flood the space with colored light. Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the details of the stained glass and vaults.

The church bells are still rung by hand by local bell ringers, creating an acoustic link to the past. Five of the six bells date to 1928, while one older bell survives from the 1700s.

Location: Lautenbach

Inception: 1483

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

Website: https://kath-oberkirch.de/html/content/wallfahrtskirche_mariae_kroenung.html

GPS coordinates: 48.51889,8.11833

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:06