Visit Petrikirche (St. Peter’s Church) at the right time of year and you could be treated to one of Dortmund’s greatest artistic treasures. The medieval church is an impressive sight, its steep spire towering over the surrounding city centre. Enter the building to experience a spacious, airy nave that contains the Antwerp Altar, a masterpiece of woodcarving.
Like many of Dortmund’s churches, Petrikirche has been restored after it was destroyed during bombing raids. Wonder at the age of this church, which was originally built in 1322 and has maintained many of its medieval design elements. Notice the altar, which was added to the church in the early 16th century, having been designed for a nearby monastery.
Take photos of the simple, striking exterior, crafted from light stone with a steeply sloping black roof. Head inside to rest in its welcoming nave, which creates a peaceful atmosphere with its white vaulted ceilings and large, clear windows that allow natural light to flood the room.
View the “Golden Wonder of Westphalia,” a remarkable altar from Antwerp dating back to 1522. The altar, which is closed to the public in summer, stands at 18 feet (6 metres) and 24 feet (7 metres) wide. Marvel at the 633 intricately carved wooden figures, gilded in still-shimmering gold, that cover its five tiers. The reliefs tell the story of Passion in meticulous detail.
Take a seat in the church on a Friday afternoon to hear an organ recital. Local musicians perform a different piece each week and admission to these concerts is entirely free, although donations are welcomed. Check the church’s website to see what other concerts and events are on during your visit.
Petrikirche is located in Dortmund’s city centre, close to several other attractions and numerous public transportation links. The church is open to explore from Tuesday to Saturday and opens on Sunday for its worship services. Visit between October and Holy Week to see the altarpiece on full display.
