Built in the 13th century soon after the founding of the city, Holy Spirit Church served as both hospital and church, with beds for the ill and poor set up in the nave itself. Its distinctive flat ceiling was installed in the 17th century after a gunpowder explosion tore off its formerly gabled roof. Visit it now to see many of the works of art that were saved from grander houses of worship that were destroyed during World War II.
Let the bright light from the 11 windows engulf you as you enter the church from the street. Gaze upward at the intricate designs of the ceiling, which feature 26 rosettes depicting stories from the Bible and massive wooden beams painted in traditional Baltic form. Walk to the north wall and sit in contemplation of the massive 15th-century stained-glass window, formerly part of the Marienkirche before its destruction. It remains one of the best examples of medieval Baltic stained glass. Peer at the massive painting on the wall, showing a warship in front of a panorama of Wismar as it appeared during the years of the Hanseatic League.
Walk to the front of the church to appreciate the winged altar. Look for some of the rumored 504 ways to spell “Deo Gracias” in the adjacent mural. Peek into the church’s small but beautifully maintained garden, a local favorite for reading, relaxing or silent contemplation.
Find Holy Spirit Church on the western side of Old Town, a 5-minute walk from Market Square or a 15-minute walk from the port. In summer the church is open for visitors daily from mid morning to early evening, with a slightly earlier closing time in winter. On Sundays, visit the church after the service is over. Pay the small suggested donation at the entrance. Limited street parking is available across the street or in a metered lot nearby. Wismar is easily navigated and best appreciated on foot.
