St. Martin

St. Martin is a Gothic basilica in Forchheim with a tower dating to the early 15th century and interior spaces featuring both flat ceiling sections and vaulted areas. The building displays a mix of architectural elements added and adapted over many centuries of use and development.

The church grew from a chapel serving a royal court in the early medieval period and was elevated to collegiate church status in 1354 by the Bamberg church authorities. This transformation brought increased importance and new functions that shaped its development.

The church serves as an active center for the local community, where residents gather regularly for worship and shared celebrations. The dedication to Saint Martin connects this place to a beloved figure throughout European Christian tradition.

The interior is accessible to visitors during daylight hours, and the parish office can be reached on weekday mornings and some afternoons. Plan your visit outside of service times if you want to explore the church at your own pace without interruption.

The church's bell system includes six bells, among them the Martinsglocke cast in 1837, which continues to mark the rhythm of community life. Most striking is an unnamed bell from the 16th century, one of the oldest surviving examples in the area.

Location: Forchheim

GPS coordinates: 49.71970,11.05730

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:25