Kirche St. Maria (Church of Saint Mary), Stuttgart

The Church of Saint Mary is a prominent Gothic-style Catholic church in Stuttgart. Designed by the architect Joseph von Egle, it was constructed between 1871 and 1879 and consecrated on November 12, 1879. This church holds the distinction of being the first Catholic church built in Stuttgart following the Reformation and is dedicated to the Visitation of the Virgin Mary.

Architecturally, the church is a stunning example of early Gothic design, inspired by the Trier Church of Our Lady and the Elizabeth Church in Marburg. The structure features a three-nave hall design with a transept and three choirs, measuring 54 meters in length and 33 meters in width. The façade is marked by two imposing towers, each rising to nearly 60 meters, which are a distinctive feature of the Stuttgart skyline.

During World War II, the church suffered significant damage; the vault collapsed, and only the towers remained intact. The towers, however, were severely burned but were restored by 1949. The church's interior was also rebuilt, including the replacement of the collapsed vault with a wooden ceiling, allowing the church to reopen for Christmas services that year.

The church houses several notable artistic works, including stained glass windows by Otto Habel, installed in the 1960s and 1970s, and several Gothic artworks on loan from the Württemberg State Museum. These include a crucifixion group in the choir and other religious sculptures.

Saint Mary’s Church is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of resilience, having been restored and preserved through the efforts of its congregation and the local community. It remains an active parish, being the oldest of the three parishes in Stuttgart-Süd.