Martinstor

In the heart of Freiburg im Breisgau, a city known for its medieval charm and vibrant culture, stands the Martinstor, an impressive relic of the past that beckons visitors to delve into its rich history. As one of the two remaining gate towers of the city's medieval fortifications, the Martinstor is not just a gateway through which one passes, but a portal to a bygone era, steeped in stories and historical significance.

The History of Martinstor

The origins of the Martinstor, also known as the Norsinger Tor in the Middle Ages, can be traced back to the early 13th century. Dendrochronological studies of the wooden beams date the construction to 1202, and it was first documented in 1238 as Porta Sancti Martini. The gate tower, with a base measuring 10 by 11 meters, was initially integrated into the city wall and connected to the battlement walkway behind the crenellations.

Throughout the centuries, the Martinstor underwent numerous modifications and served various purposes, including a stint as a prison. The phrase hanging the Martin's coat was coined to describe the fate of the prisoners held there. By the 17th century, the city side of the tower was adorned with an image of St. Martin, a motif that was renewed several times until its removal in 1968/69. Despite attempts to decide on a new depiction, the space above the commemorative plaque for the battles of the Freiburg militia against French revolutionary troops remains empty.

Architectural Evolution

The Martinstor remained largely unchanged until the late 19th century, when debates arose about its demolition due to traffic concerns. However, Mayor Otto Winterer championed its preservation and enhancement, famously declaring, Villages have roofs, cities have towers! In 1896, a competition among German architects sought designs for the tower's renovation, but none were implemented. Instead, architects Josef Durm and Carl Schäfer were commissioned to adapt their plans to accommodate the newly introduced electric tramway, which necessitated the repositioning of adjacent buildings.

Schäfer proposed increasing the height of the Martinstor from 22 to 66 meters to match the taller surrounding structures, blending elements from the 13th and 15th centuries. The renovation, led by Freiburg master builder Eugen Schmidt, was completed in October 1901, alongside the inauguration of the tramway. Although further plans to overbuild the pedestrian walkway were not realized, Schäfer's vision significantly shaped the tower's current appearance. The western extension, added during the 1901 renovation, features a larger passageway and once bore the painted German Imperial Eagle, which was removed in 1951. A replica of a Baroque sandstone plaque with the Holy Roman Empire's double-headed eagle now adorns the exterior.

Modern-Day Martinstor

Today, the Martinstor stands as a proud sentinel over Freiburg's bustling Kaiser-Joseph-Straße. On the city center side, a commemorative plaque honors the victims of the Freiburg witch trials, specifically naming three women executed in 1599. Adjacent to the tower, a McDonald's restaurant occupies the western extension, though the city council successfully prevented the installation of the chain's iconic red and yellow logo above the archway.

In the nearby Martinsgässle, the entrance to Freiburg's market hall and the Martinsbräu brewery can be found, offering visitors a taste of local culture and cuisine. The Martinstor also holds a special place in the hearts of model railway enthusiasts, as the model train accessory manufacturer Faller offers a scale model of the tower for H0 and N gauge layouts.

Additionally, the Martinstor is featured on the commemorative coin celebrating Freiburg's 900th anniversary, depicting the southern view of the tower and its adjacent buildings, artistically separated for emphasis.

Visiting the Martinstor

Exploring the Martinstor is a journey through time, offering glimpses into the architectural and historical layers that have shaped Freiburg. As you pass through its archway, imagine the countless footsteps that have echoed through its passage over the centuries. Reflect on the tower's transformation from a medieval gate to a modern landmark, and appreciate the efforts to preserve its legacy for future generations.

Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, the Martinstor is a must-see destination in Freiburg. Its towering presence and storied past invite you to discover the rich tapestry of history woven into the fabric of this enchanting city. So, take a moment to stand beneath its arches, look up at its imposing structure, and let the Martinstor transport you to a time when towers defined the skyline and the city walls held the secrets of the past.