Start of construction for Anklams Ikarus: Modernization of the Nikolaikirche in sight

Start of construction for Anklams Ikarus: Modernization of the Nikolaikirche in sight

In the charming city, the concrete rolls in the third construction phase of the Nikolaikirche. Due to the integration of modern elements, historical church buildings are gradually being converted into a modern museum. This not only has cultural importance, but is also intended to create an attractive attractive point of attraction for tourists. The conversion, which is associated with a total volume of 10.5 million euros, aims to move the Otto Lilienthal Museum into the church after completion. Nordkurier reports that the construction work should be completed by 2027 realize.

The solemn start of construction was duly celebrated, and even a time capsule found its way into a safe of the church. Unfortunately, the Minister of Culture Bettina Martin (SPD) invited to the occasion had to cancel at short notice. Instead, Member of the Landtag Jeannine Rösler (Die Linke) spoke a greeting and assured the city of Anklam that it continues to be dependent on the co-financing of the country for the new exhibition.

cultural heritage and aviation history

But what would be okay without the Otto Lilienthal Museum? Lilienthal, known as the “Prussian Ikarus”, revolutionized the world of aviation and completed the first safe, multiple gliding flight in history in 1891. His willingness to experiment and scientific approaches laid the foundation for the later work of the Wright brothers in the United States. Today the museum, which opened for its 100th birthday, houses the world's largest collection of reconstructions from Lilienthal aircraft. In addition, the topic of "dreams of flying" is impressively presented, which stimulates the imagination of the visitors. Cultural memory praises the importance of the museum, which is also internationally recognized, including the award "European Museum of the Year Award-Special Commendation ”in 1999.

The German Foundation for Monument Protection, meanwhile, promotes up to 600 renovation projects in Germany every year, which gives the Nikolaikirche a certain support. With an annual funding volume of around 20 million euros, churches, castles and historical gardens are supported. There is also a voluntary commission that is advisable to select the project, which increases the chances of success for such important cultural projects. Monument protection emphasizes that over 350 monuments have currently been promised, which is what hope for the future construction phases of the Nikolaikirche creates.

financing and outlook

But how does it go on? The fourth phase of construction, which is supposed to include a new church tower tip, has not yet been financed. Here the city of Anklam will be required to find creative solutions to acquire the necessary means. However, Prime Minister Manuela Schwesig (SPD) will inaugurate the regional information and tourism center (Ritz) in mid-July, which could perhaps bring new impulses for the region and an increase in visitor volume.

In Anklam, an exciting time is imminent, because the bridging from the historical church to the modern museum will not only revitalize the city, but also the aviation history. It remains to be hoped that all the necessary means and support will come together in good time in order to successfully complete the renovation and to celebrate the new cultural meeting point in Anklam.