Sint-Maartenskerk, Gothic church in Kortrijk, Belgium
Sint-Maartenskerk is a church in Kortrijk characterized by its tall stone tower built in Brabantine Gothic style. The tower rises about 83 meters and features detailed stonework with multiple levels, creating a prominent vertical accent over the city.
Construction started in 1390 after French soldiers destroyed the earlier building on this site. Work continued with various modifications until 1466, establishing the form that largely remains today.
The church houses the Holy Spirit Triptych painted by Bernard de Rijckere in 1587, showing scenes of Pentecost, the baptism of Jesus, and the creation of Adam. This artwork shapes the spiritual character of the space and reflects how important artistic expression became in this religious place over time.
Visitors can generally explore the church and tower daily, with access possible between 10 and 17, though advance booking is required. The tower may close during specific periods when peregrine falcons nest in the structure.
A lightning strike in 1862 destroyed the wooden spire from 1601 and large sections of the roof. The reconstruction that followed changed the building's appearance significantly and turned it into a symbol of how the structure endured after natural disaster.
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