Sibiu Lutheran Cathedral

Sibiu Lutheran Cathedral
File:Catedrala Evanghelica - Sibiu.jpg View of the main facade of the Lutheran Cathedral
Basic information
Location	Huet Square, Sibiu, Romania
Geographic coordinates
Affiliation	Lutheranism
Region	Sibiu
Ecclesiastical or organizational status	Cathedral
Status	Active
Architectural description
Architectural type	Church
Architectural style	Gothic
Direction of façade	South
Groundbreaking	1371 (1371)
Completed	1520 (1520)
Specifications
Height (max)	73.34 metres (240.6 ft)

The Lutheran Cathedral of Saint Mary (German: Evangelische Stadtpfarrkirche in Hermannstadt, Romanian: Biserica Evanghelică din Sibiu) is the most famous Gothic-style church in Sibiu, Transylvania, Romania. Its massive 73.34 m high steeple is a landmark of the city. The four turrets situated on top of the steeple were a sign to let foreigners know that the town had the right to sentence to death.

History

The Sibiu Lutheran Cathedral was built in the 14th century on the location of another 12th-century church. For three centuries it served as a burial place for the mayors, earls and other personalities from Sibiu. This practice was banned in 1796 but one exception was made in 1803 when baron Samuel von Brukenthal was laid to rest in the crypt.

In 1671 a Slovakian craftsman built an organ to replace the previous one that was built in 1585. Today the newer organ is the largest in the southeastern region of Europe. During the summer, there are concerts every Wednesday night.

Burials

• Mihnea cel Rău
• Samuel von Brukenthal

External links

• Sibiu Evangelical Church