THE MAIN CHURCH OF ST. CATHARINES
A treasure trove in every sense of the word
The main church of St Catherine: a place of worship for sailors and merchants
The main church of St. Catherine rises majestically above the roofs of Hamburg’s Speicherstadt. With its striking tower and baroque splendour inside, it is not only a house of worship, but also a testament to Hamburg’s history and maritime tradition. Learn more about the church’s exciting past, its architectural features and why it is an absolute must-see for tourists.
Brick Gothic and baroque splendour
The main church of St. Catherine is an impressive example of North German brick Gothic architecture. Its imposing tower with its baroque dome characterises the city’s silhouette. Inside, visitors can expect a light-flooded space with Gothic vaults and baroque decorations.
A church with a colourful history
The history of St. Catherine’s Church goes back to the 13th century. As a church for seafarers, brewers and merchants, it has experienced storm surges, fires and wars over the centuries. It was severely damaged during the Second World War, but thanks to the commitment of the citizens of Hamburg, it was rebuilt. Today it shines in new splendour and is a vibrant place of encounter.
The tower of St. Catherine's
A legend surrounds the steeple of St. Catherine’s Church: its golden crown is said to have been adorned with the treasure of the pirate Klaus Störtebeker. To reach the top of the tower, you have to climb 292 steps; the route passes the large bells, the largest of which dates from 1626.
An organ with history
The towering interior of St. Catherine’s is supported by mighty columns and has an organ that is richly decorated with ornaments and gold. Its origins date back to the 16th century. In 1720, Johann Sebastian Back played a legendary concert on this organ, which was also destroyed in the Second World War. Today, it has been reconstructed as a masterpiece and restored to its former glory.
A place of music
St. Catherine’s is not only a place of worship, but also a venue for music. The church has excellent acoustics and is therefore a popular concert venue. Organ recitals, choral concerts and other musical performances take place here regularly.
A must for tourists.
The main church of St. Catherine is an absolute must for every visitor to Hamburg. It is not only an architectural gem, but also a place with a fascinating history. Visitors can explore the church on their own or take a tour of the tower. From the tower’s viewing platform, you have a magnificent view of the city and the harbour.
Contact / connection
- Rote Doppeldecker
Haltestelle Nr. 5, Singapurstraße - HVV
U-Bahn: U1 Meßberg, U3 Rödingsmarkt
- Anschrift:
Hauptkirche St. Katharinen
Katharinenkirchhof 1
20457 Hamburg - Telefon: +49 40 30 37 47 – 30
- Mail: kontakt@katharinen-hamburg.de
- Internet:www.katharinen-hamburg.de