Liebfrauenkirche (Church of Our Lady), Trier (must see)

The Church of Our Lady (Liebfrauenkirche) in Trier is a remarkable example of French High Gothic architecture outside of France. Recognized by UNESCO as part of the Roman Monuments, Cathedral of Saint Peter, and Church of Our Lady in Trier World Heritage Site, this church stands next to the Trier Cathedral, sharing a wall and cloister with it. Originally, a Roman double church occupied this site, initiated by a large endowment from Roman Emperor Constantine in 326 AD. By the early 13th century, the southern part had fallen into disrepair, prompting Archbishop Theoderich von Wied to commission French builders from Champagne to reconstruct it. Construction likely began in 1230, and the church was completed around 1260.

The Church of Our Lady’s design is unique, featuring a cruciform floor plan shaped like a rose, symbolizing the Virgin Mary as the Rosa Mystica. This rose design includes twelve "petals," representing the twelve tribes of Israel and the Twelve Apostles. Supporting columns are decorated with paintings of the apostles and the articles of the Apostles' Creed, which can only be fully appreciated from a spot marked by a golden star.

Historically, the church has undergone significant transformations. In 1492, a peak known for its impressive craftsmanship crowned the central tower but was destroyed in a 1631 storm. Later, the roof was replaced in 1945 and again, with a steeper version, in 2003. Designated a minor basilica by Pope Pius XII in 1951, this church holds a deep architectural and spiritual significance. Today, it stands as a Gothic masterpiece with ancient roots, supported by Roman column foundations beneath the structure.