St. Mary's Church Lübeck, Medieval brick church in Lübeck, Germany
The central nave of St Mary's Church rises to 38.5 meters, featuring the tallest brick vault ceiling in the entire world.
Construction of this Lutheran church occurred between 1265 and 1351, establishing architectural standards for 70 other churches across the Baltic region.
The name honors Mary, mother of Jesus, and reflects the building's role as the main parish for the Hanseatic city over many centuries. Today a broken bell from World War II hangs near the entrance as a peace memorial.
The entrance sits on the west side of the building, and most areas are accessible at ground level. The towers can be climbed via narrow stairs with a separate admission ticket.
The Chapel of Indulgences east of the south tower, added in 1310, has a stellar vault and is compared to English cathedral Gothic and the chapter house of Malbork Castle. Since the Reformation it has served as a winter church, with services from January to March.
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