Redesign

Architecture

Between 2011 and 2012 Marienkirche was completely renovated. The work took place under the direction of Stefan Dreier, a multi-award-winning architect.

The large organ loft was dismantled, removing any impediments to the view of the west-facing Gothic window. The plasterwork both on the inside and on the outside was removed throughout and replaced by a new, thin layer of lime rendering that affords viewers glimpses of the original rubble-work walls. The structure was also stabilized by putting new foundations in place and bracing in the apse area.

The entire high altar and the two side altars were dismantled, leaving the church completely level with the ground once again and thus accessible, presumably as it was when it first saw the light of day.

The interior of the building has been restored to its original condition, resulting in an uncluttered and well-proportioned space as befits the Cistercian architecture. This restoration to its nascent state also laid the foundations for the newly-designed interior architecture elements, such as the windows, the altar, the cross, the floor, the niche and the side chapel.