Saint Martin's Church (Kortrijk) Explained

Fullname:Sint-Maartenskerk
Saint-Martin's church
Location:Kortrijk (Courtrai)
Country:Belgium
Denomination:Roman Catholic Church
Style:Gothic architecture
Founded Date:1390
Completed Date:1390
Height:83 m

St-Martin's Church (Sint-Maartenskerk in Dutch) is the main church and one of the principal Gothic monuments of Kortrijk (Courtrai), Flanders, Belgium. The church is dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours.

History

The first gothic Saint Martin's church, was burned down after the battle of Rozenbeke. This church was located at the place where a Roman church once stood (built in 650). The second church was built between 1390 and 1466, some remnants of which were incorporated in the present day church and remain visible. In 1585, the famous Sacramental tower was constructed in the choir. The current belltower dates from the 19th century, a rebuilding after a fire in 1862 ruined the choir and major parts of the roof and tower.

Amongst the artworks, old works of Gaspar de Crayer can be seen. The organ, dating to 1888, is a major work of Pierre Schyven.[1]

Gallery

Image:Sint-MaartenKortrijk.jpg|Central Square (Grote Markt) of Kortrijk with the Saint-Martin's church (2004)Image:Sacramentstoren.jpg|The 'Sacrament' tower inside the Saint Martin's ChurchPM 137407 B Kortrijk.jpg|Triptych by Bernard de Rijckere

See also

External links

50.8276°N 3.2683°W

Notes and References

  1. Book: Gids Voor Vlaanderen 2007. 9789020959635. Vandeputte. Omer. Devos. Filip. 2007.