Marienkirche ~ St. Marie' s Church by starship
Unfortunately the Marienkirche was adorned with scaffolding when we came to Rostock. The exterior seemed to be badly marred by soot, dirt and the effects of aging so it was great to see that the building is being cared for and is undergoing some sort of restoration.The Marienkirche is probably the most important church in Rostock and one of its most important tourist attractions. The building of the church actually began in the mid-13th century only to have the structure collapse. What later emerged was the cruiciform, Gothic basilica which was also later updated. The church possesses a bronze font which dates to 1290. The church's most memorable feature has to be astronomical clock or "Astronomische Uhr" built in 1472. At noon each day, the elaborate timepiece moves the 12 Apostles out from a recess to meet Jesus and become sanctified. After Jesus blesses the Apostles, they march back through the heavenly gates which closes behind them. However, one lone Apostle is left outside of the gates---of course, it is Judas! Other important features are the churche's Baroque organ, and the Rochus Altar of 1530.
The Marienkirche is open Mondays through Saturdays from May to October from 10am to 5pm. Admission in other monthes varies as do the opening hours. Check their website for additional information. Admission is a very resonable 1 Euro.
