St Martin’s Church and St Martin’s Church Tower
St Martin's Church is a real eye-catcher right on the Grote Markt. Like a beacon, this heritage gem looks out over the city centre. Its 83 metre high tower has proven to be the perfect place to admire the Kortrijk skyline from up high.
St Martin’s Church
History
St Martin's Church goes back more than 1,000 years. Destroyed, rebuilt and reconstructed over the centuries, it houses a wealth of works of art as well as a fully-fledged 19th century carillon.
One of the most dramatic events is the disaster that befell St Martin's Church in 1862. On 7 August of that year, lightning struck and the building caught fire. The roof burned out completely and the bells came crashing down. One person died and the damage was enormous. Fortunately, many works of art were saved and, miraculously, the stately Sacrament Tower remained intact. The reconstruction of the church, however, took decades. The distinction between old and new is still evident in the different pillars.
The showpiece of the church is undoubtedly the 'Triptych of the Holy Spirit' by Bernard de Rijckere from 1587: a Pentecost scene with the baptism of Jesus and the creation of Adam. The triptych can be admired in the enclosed chapel. Impressive is also the unique Sacrament Tower of 6.5 metres high from 1585.
The tower
When you visit St Martin's Church with friends or family, you can immediately show off with some striking facts. In the west tower, there are 49 church bells, which can be played as a carillon. Together, they weigh no less than 18,700 kg.
By the way, did you know that peregrine falcons have been living in the St Martin's Tower for years? Their story is full of intrigue: adultery, fights, you name it. The feathered residents of St Martin's Tower are not to be trifled with.
Opening hours
Monday to Sunday from 10.00 to 17.00
Last visit/access at 16.00.
Book your tickets by clicking on this link.
Attention
Between 1st March and 1st June 2022 the St. Martin's Church tower is closed due to the breeding season of peregrine falcons.
Curious?
Follow the peregrine falcons via www.kortrijk.be/webcams and https://youtu.be/rLte-d5bbMU
Exceptions
The tower is closed on 1 January and on 24, 25 and 31 December.
The tower may also be closed to the public during maintenance work on the tower or in the event of bad weather.
Guided tours
It is impossible to visit St Martin's Church on your own. If you want more information, then why not book a paid visit with a guide? Contact Tourism Kortrijk on +32 (0)56 27 78 40 - visit@kortrijk.be.
