St Martin's Church, Colmar

Nestled in the heart of Colmar, France, stands the magnificent St Martin's Church, also known locally as Collégiale Saint-Martin de Colmar. This architectural gem is not only the most significant religious building in the city but also one of the largest Gothic churches in the Haut-Rhin region. Its grandeur and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the enchanting town of Colmar.

The Historical Tapestry of St Martin's Church

The history of St Martin's Church is as rich and intricate as the Gothic detailing that adorns its exterior. The origins of this sacred site trace back to before the year 1000, when a chapel dedicated to Saint Martin was established by the Abbey of Munster. Archaeological excavations in 1972 unearthed remnants of an 11th-century sanctuary, hinting at the long-standing religious significance of this location.

The church we see today began its transformation in 1234, following a papal bull from Pope Gregory IX, which elevated it to a collegiate chapter. Construction spanned over a century, with the initial work focusing on the transept and progressing to the nave and towers under the guidance of Master Humbert. The choir and its ambulatory were later completed by architect Guillaume de Marbourg, who passed away in 1366.

Despite its extensive construction period, the church was never fully completed, and the originally planned north tower remains absent. A devastating fire in 1572 destroyed the wooden framework and the south tower's crown. However, the unique bulbous lantern that replaced the original spire in 1575 has since become a distinctive feature of the church's silhouette.

Architectural Marvels and Artistic Treasures

St Martin's Church is a splendid example of Gothic architecture, constructed from sandstone sourced from various quarries in the Vosges Mountains. This gives the church its distinctive blend of hues, adding to its visual appeal. The interior is equally impressive, with a nave featuring five elongated bays separated by cylindrical pillars adorned with four colonnettes, elements reminiscent of the Church of Saint Thomas in Strasbourg.

The church's exterior is adorned with numerous portals, some of which have been sealed over time. The central portal boasts a richly decorated tympanum depicting the Adoration of the Magi and the Last Judgment, capped by an intricately carved gable. The colorful roof tiles, known as beaver tail tiles, are a striking feature, echoing the design of the collegiate church of Saint-Thiébaut in Thann.

Inside, the church's austere beauty is punctuated by well-preserved medieval sculptures and stained glass windows. The altar and a statue of the Virgin Mary are notable highlights. Of particular interest is the head of Christ without a beard, a rare depiction from the early 13th century, located above the north portal.

For centuries, St Martin's Church housed the renowned painting Virgin in a Rose Garden by Martin Schongauer, created in 1473. This masterpiece was stolen in 1972 but was fortunately recovered in 1973 and is now displayed in the Dominican Church in Colmar.

The Choir Stalls: A Journey Through Time

The choir of St Martin's Church is home to twenty-three stalls on each side, once occupied by the canons of the collegiate chapter. The carvings on these stalls offer a fascinating glimpse into biblical history and early Christian tradition. On the right side of the choir, the representations primarily reference the Old Testament, featuring figures such as Abel, Methuselah, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The left side focuses on the early Church, with depictions of Christ on the Cross, Saint Peter, Saint Paul, and the four Evangelists.

The Majestic Organs

Music has always been an integral part of the spiritual experience at St Martin's Church. The grand organ, crafted in 1755 by the renowned Strasbourg organ builder Johann Andreas Silbermann, is a testament to this tradition. Although the original instrument was replaced in 1979 by the Swiss firm Felsberg AG, the magnificent baroque case has been preserved. Additionally, a choir organ built in 1975 by Curt Schwenkedel and a positive organ acquired in 2018 further enrich the church's musical heritage.

The Harmonious Bells

The bells of St Martin's Church are considered among the most melodious in France. Following the 1572 fire, eight new bells were cast by a Bernese foundry. Although most were removed and melted down during the French Revolution, the bell tower still houses a harmonious peal of eight bells, along with a smaller bell in the lantern. Notable among these is the Christ and Church bell, weighing 5,859 kilos and cast in 1990, and the Martin bell, weighing 2,583 kilos and cast in 1819.

In conclusion, St Martin's Church in Colmar is not just a place of worship; it is a monument to the rich tapestry of history, art, and architecture that defines this charming Alsatian town. Whether you are an aficionado of Gothic architecture, a history enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to St Martin's Church promises an unforgettable journey through time and beauty.