Although Stralsund’s St. Jacob’s Church was first mentioned in documents as early as 1303, it took until the end of the 14th century for the construction of the basilica on the edge of the historic city centre to be completed. The church is known for having fallen victim to many destructions through wars and misfortunes over the centuries. Due to a devastating lightning strike in April 1662, the top of the tower pyramid as well as the four side towers and the entire roof burnt down. The fire subsequently spread to the city and destroyed numerous buildings in the vicinity as well as the Gothic spires of the nearby St. Nicholas Church.
