St. Mary's Church: A Dortmund Landmark
Discover Dortmund's oldest inner-city church, a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture housing medieval art, rebuilt after WWII, and a vibrant concert venue.
St. Mary's Church, or Marienkirche, stands as Dortmund's oldest extant church within the inner city, a testament to resilience and architectural evolution. Originally built between 1170 and 1200 in the Romanesque style, it served as the town's council and jurisdiction center. Around 1350, a Gothic choir was added, influencing the design of Reinoldikirche across the road. Housing significant medieval art, including the Marienaltar by Conrad von Soest and the Berswordtaltar, the church faced near-total destruction during World War II. Rebuilt by 1959, it now features restored glass windows by Johannes Schreiter and a reconstructed swallow's nest organ, serving as a venue for sacred music and a poignant reminder of Dortmund's history. Visitors are drawn to its serene atmosphere and the blend of architectural styles, making it a compelling stop for those exploring Dortmund's cultural heart.
A brief summary to St. Mary's Church
- Kleppingstraße 5, Dortmund, Innenstadt-West, 44135, DE
- +49231526548
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during a weekday for a quieter, more contemplative experience, as weekends can be busier with services and events.
- Check the church's schedule for guided tours to gain deeper insights into its history, architecture, and the significance of its artwork.
- Attend a concert of sacred music to experience the church's acoustics and appreciate its role as a cultural venue.
- Take time to admire the stained glass windows up close; the morning light offers the best conditions for photography.
- Explore the area around the church, including the Westenhellweg shopping street and the nearby St. Reinold's Church, to get a feel for Dortmund's city center.
Getting There
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Public Transport
For those arriving at Dortmund Hauptbahnhof (main train station), the U-Bahn offers a convenient connection. Take U-Bahn line U41, U43, U44, or U47 towards the city center and disembark at the Kampstraße station. From Kampstraße, St. Mary's Church is approximately a 5-minute walk. Walk east on Kampstraße, then turn left onto Kleppingstraße. The church will be on your left. A single ride ticket on the U-Bahn costs approximately €3.00.
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Walking
If you are already in Dortmund's city center, for example, near the Alter Markt (Old Market Square) or St. Reinold's Church, St. Mary's Church is easily accessible on foot. From Alter Markt, walk east along Westenhellweg, then turn right onto Kleppingstraße. The church will be a short distance down the street on your right. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Dortmund. A taxi ride from Dortmund Hauptbahnhof to St. Mary's Church typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic. Simply provide the driver with the address: Kleppingstraße 5, 44135 Dortmund. Note that during peak hours, ride-sharing services may have surge pricing.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to Kleppingstraße 5, 44135 Dortmund. Parking near St. Mary's Church is available at several nearby parking garages, including Parkhaus Kleppingstraße. Hourly parking rates typically range from €2 to €3, with daily maximums around €15 to €20. Be aware that parking in the immediate vicinity may be limited, especially during peak tourist season or church events. Consider using a parking app to find and reserve a space in advance.
Discover more about St. Mary's Church
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