Marienkirche, Gothic church tower in Wismar, Germany

Marienkirche is a brick church tower rising 80 meters high in Wismar, built in red brick and designed in the Brick Gothic architectural style. The structure displays the characteristic vertical lines and detailed masonry that define this regional medieval building tradition.

The original church was founded in 1270 near the marketplace and expanded with two side halls during the 15th century. Severe damage during World War II destroyed much of the building, leaving only the tower standing as a reminder of the loss.

The tower contains a bell ensemble of nine preserved bells that play different chorales according to the ecclesiastical calendar throughout the year. These sounds have woven into the city's identity for generations, creating a living connection to religious traditions.

The tower rises prominently in the city center and can be appreciated from the surrounding streets. Inside, visitors will find an exhibition exploring brick Gothic construction methods alongside a three-dimensional film that explains how the building techniques evolved from raw materials to finished masonry.

The tower was used as a filming location for the 1922 German Expressionist horror film Nosferatu directed by Friedrich Wilhelm Murnau. This cinematic connection has given the location an unexpected place in film history and continues to draw fans of early cinema.

• Location: Wismar
• Architectural style: Brick Gothic
• Height: 80 m
• Made from material: brick
• Address: St.-Marien-Kirchhof, 23966 Wismar
• Phone: [phone]
• Website: http://wismar-marien.de
• GPS coordinates: 53.89110,11.46270
• Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:22