Hanstorf Church

Hanstorf Church – Early Gothic from the 13th century

The church in Hanstorf is one of the most remarkable medieval structures in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Originally built as an early Gothic fieldstone structure in the 13th century, the building was expanded with brick in later centuries. As a result, Hanstorf Church gained a nave and a three-sided apse with buttresses at the choir—a characteristic architectural tradition also found in other church buildings in the southern Baltic Sea region, such as in the Rostock or Wismar areas.

Fieldstone church in the historic cemetery in Hanstorf

The church building stands on a slight hill in the middle of a cemetery enclosed by an old brick wall. This quiet, slightly elevated location gives the church a striking presence in the Mecklenburg landscape. The cemetery itself is a peaceful place that reflects the long history of the Hanstorf community.

Tour of Hanstorf Church

Those wishing to tour the interior of the church should please contact the Hanstorf rectory in advance—all necessary contact information can be found in the contact box on this page. As one of the region’s most significant medieval landmarks, a visit to Hanstorf Church is particularly worthwhile for those interested in architectural history and regional cultural history.