The Church of Seafarers astounds with its original Gothic exterior, paintings of popular saints and lifeboat memorial. It’s also special for having survived World War II bombings.
St. Jakobi Church (St. Jakobi zu Lübeck) is one of the five famous churches of Luebeck Old Town. The austere architecture is a testament to the talents of its medieval creators while the interior is decorated with remarkable artifacts. St. Jakobi Church is unique in that it survived the bomb raids on the city by the British forces in World War II. Since the time of the Hanseatic League it has been the church of choice among fisherman, sailors and seafarers.
Dominating the church’s façade is a multilevel clock tower and its soaring spire. Narrow Gothic windows decorate the four sides of the tower and stone spheres sit at the base of the spire. Note how the clocks only show the time with one hand. Adjacent to the building is a row of houses, which are the former homes of priests.
Step inside to find a typical Gothic church layout characterized by high-vaulted ceilings and tall arches. On display in a chapel is a lifeboat that honors Luebeck sailors past and present. It’s from the Pamir, a German sailing ship that sank in 1957 in Portugal’s Azores region. The church’s maritime connection continues with 16th-century paintings of captains, motifs and coats of arms.
Decorating the pillars is a collection of 14th-century frescoes of saints by unknown artists. Those portrayed include James the Elder, Simon the Zealot and St. Christopher. The three church organs show elements of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. The oldest organ dates back to the 1460s.
The church stands in the northern section of Luebeck Old Town. Burgtor, the northern entrance to the old town, is a 5-minute walk away. In December a Christmas market sets up on Koberg. Ride traditional fairground attractions, shop for handicrafts and keep warm by sipping on a mug fruity glühwein.
Admission is free to St. Jakobi Church, although donations are welcome. There are no visits during services and special events. Visit the church’s official website to see a schedule of choir and organ concerts.
