St. Mary’s Church, Lübeck: Start of interior renovation work expected from 2026

Extensive renovation work on the interior shell of St Mary’s Church in Lübeck is expected to begin this year. According to current forecasts – subject to final approval – there is a prospect that the €14 million in funding could be released by the Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media (BKM) at the end of February 2026. Only then would it be possible to officially commence construction on the major renovation project for the church in Lübeck city centre.

Following years of intensive preparation, the funds raised to date could thus be put to their intended use for the first time. Shortly before the turn of the year, Dr Jan-Dirk Verwey, Chairman of the Board, and Heike Reimann, Fundraising Officer at the 7Türme+ Foundation, together with the architect in charge, Christine Johannsen of Architekten Johannsen und Partner mbB, visited the site to find out about the current status of the investigations at St. Marien.

Archaeological discoveries beneath the church floor

As part of the preparatory work, random test pits were dug at several locations – accompanied by archaeologists. This revealed some surprising finds: among other things, a previously unknown crypt was discovered, the interior walls of which are decorated with paintings and have been excavated layer by layer and documented. The findings are currently being scientifically analysed. In addition, the experts came across the remains of a historic hot-air heating system, the date of construction of which is also currently being investigated. Once the investigations are complete, the excavated areas will initially be filled with sand, as they will need to be re-excavated for the installation of the new heating system.

A glimpse into the early history of St Mary’s Church

The excavations, which are over a metre deep, offer a unique insight into the early history of St Mary’s Church, whose origins date back to a predecessor building from the 12th century. Exposed walls on solid fieldstone foundations clearly date from Lübeck’s economic boom period around 1200.

These finds not only confirm earlier architectural assumptions, but also shed new light on the Romanesque church that preceded it. As early as the late 12th century, a monumental Romanesque brick basilica was built here, reflecting Lübeck’s economic boom under the rule of the Danish King Valdemar II. Financed by Lübeck merchants, it even surpassed Lübeck Cathedral in size – a striking symbol of the city’s self-confidence.

Craftsmanship details: incised grooves and decorated floor tiles

The current archaeological work has also revealed craftsmanship details: so-called incised grooves, fine, deliberately carved grooves in the bricks, a characteristic stylistic feature of early Romanesque brick architecture. Another discovery: artistically decorated floor tiles from the 1370s from the former chancel area – significant artefacts of medieval architectural and art history.

Renovation as an opportunity for research and the public

Further archaeological investigations in the side aisles and the chancel area are being carried out in close consultation between the parish, the Lübeck-Lauenburg church district, and the municipal and church heritage conservation authorities. The aim is not only to document the new findings scientifically, but also to present them in a way that is accessible to the public in future. “With the upcoming renovation of St Mary’s brings with it a great responsibility and an extraordinary opportunity,” says Dr Jan-Dirk Verwey. “The current finds impressively demonstrate how deeply the history of this church is interwoven with the urban development of Lübeck. It is a special moment where architectural history, archaeology and shaping the future come together.” The planned measures are intended to help preserve the outstanding cultural heritage of St Mary’s Church whilst carefully integrating modern technical requirements – particularly in terms of climate control and usage.