St. Martin's Church: Aalst's Gothic Masterpiece

St. Martin's Church, or Sint-Martinuskerk in Flemish, dominates the Aalst skyline with its imposing Gothic presence. This architectural marvel, located on Priester Daensplein, is more than just a place of worship; it's a living museum, a repository of art, history, and the enduring spirit of Aalst. Construction commenced in 1480, with the chancel marking the oldest section, and continued for nearly two centuries, finally concluding in 1660. Despite this lengthy construction period, the church boasts a remarkable stylistic unity, a testament to the skill and vision of the architects and craftsmen involved. The church's design reflects the societal structure of bygone eras. Various guilds, including butchers, bakers, brewers, tailors, and millers, each commissioned their own chapels within the church. Today, visitors can admire 21 of these chapels, each featuring magnificently decorated altars that showcase the unique artistic sensibilities of their respective guilds. These chapels offer a glimpse into the economic and social life of Aalst throughout the centuries. One of the church's most prized possessions is the altarpiece by Peter Paul Rubens, titled "Christ Appointing Saint Roch as Patron Saint of Plague Victims." Completed in 1626, this dramatic canvas depicts Saint Roch, the patron saint of plague victims, receiving his divine appointment. The painting is a powerful testament to Rubens' mastery of color, composition, and human emotion. However, it's important to note that the four paintings of the altarpiece are currently undergoing a two-year restoration at the Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage. Another highlight is the 8-meter-high tabernacle tower, created in 1604 by Hiëronymus Duquesnoy the Elder, renowned for his iconic Manneken Pis statue in Brussels. The tabernacle tower is a masterpiece of intricate sculpture, showcasing Duquesnoy's exceptional talent and attention to detail. Visitors should also seek out the copper meridian line, installed in 1840. This ingenious device uses a lens in the stained-glass window of Saint Martin to project a beam of light onto the copper line, indicating the hour of the day. This allowed people to accurately set their watches and clocks, highlighting the church's role as a center of community life. The tombstone of Dirk Martens, a pivotal figure in printing history, is another point of interest. Martens, who died in 1534, was the first printer in the Southern Netherlands, establishing a printing shop in Aalst in 1473. His epitaph, composed by Erasmus in 1527, was installed in the church in 1784, honoring his contributions to the world of literature and knowledge. While the church's exterior is impressive, its interior is equally captivating. The high altar, carved by Janssens in 1775, is a stunning example of Baroque artistry. The choir also features a splendid tabernacle created by J. Duquesnoy and his sons in 1605. The carved and painted bench in the right transept, dating back to the 18th century, is another noteworthy feature. Despite its grandeur, St. Martin's Church remains unfinished. The west end of the church, including two-thirds of the nave, the tower, and the portal, were never completed, resulting in an unusually short nave and a unique architectural profile. This incompleteness, however, adds to the church's charm, hinting at the ambitious plans that were never fully realized. Currently, St. Martin's Church is undergoing a major restoration project scheduled to continue until 2027. This comprehensive restoration aims to preserve the church's structural integrity and artistic treasures for future generations. During this period, certain areas of the church may be temporarily inaccessible. Information regarding accessibility can be found on the deanery's website or the tourism website. Visiting St. Martin's Church is a journey through time, an immersion in art and history, and an opportunity to experience the heart and soul of Aalst. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, St. Martin's Church offers a unique and unforgettable experience.