Background

St. Martinskirche: A Gothic Gem in Freiburg

Explore St. Martinskirche in Freiburg: a historic church with Gothic architecture, rich history, and a peaceful atmosphere in the heart of the Old Town.

4.4

St. Martinskirche, a Roman Catholic parish church in Freiburg's Old Town, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural evolution. Originally built as a Franciscan monastery church in the 13th century, it has undergone several transformations, incorporating Baroque and Neo-Gothic elements.

A brief summary to St. Martinskirche

  • Rathausgasse 3, Freiburg im Breisgau, Mitte, 79098, DE

Local tips

  • Visit in the afternoon to see the stained glass windows illuminated by sunlight.
  • Check the schedule for concerts and special events.
  • Explore the charming streets and shops in the surrounding area.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are near the Freiburg Minster (Freiburger Münster), walk towards the Rathaus (town hall), which is located a few minutes away. Exit the Münster and head towards Rathausplatz square. Once at the square, you will see the Rathaus; St. Martinskirche is located on the adjacent street, Rathausgasse. Walk towards Rathausgasse, and you will find the church on your left at Rathausgasse 3. Walking is free.

  • Public Transport

    From Freiburg Hauptbahnhof, take tram line 1 or 3 towards 'Littenweiler' or 'Buchenbach' respectively. Get off at the 'Rathaus' stop, which is only a few stops away. After exiting the tram, walk towards the Rathaus (town hall), which is directly ahead. St. Martinskirche is located just behind the Rathaus, at Rathausgasse 3. A single ticket within Freiburg proper costs approximately €2.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available throughout Freiburg. A short taxi ride from the Freiburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to St. Martinskirche will cost approximately €8-€12, depending on traffic. The starting fare is around €4.00, and the price per mile is approximately €4.51.

Unlock the Best of St. Martinskirche

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about St. Martinskirche

St. Martinskirche, also known as St. Martin's Church, is a prominent Roman Catholic parish church located on Rathausplatz in the heart of Freiburg's Altstadt (Old Town). Its origins trace back to the 13th century when it was constructed as a monastery church for the Franciscan order. Count Konrad transferred the property, including the Martinskapelle, to the Franciscans in 1246, leading to the construction of a monastery complex. Throughout its history, St. Martinskirche has witnessed several architectural changes, reflecting the evolving tastes and styles of different eras. After the Thirty Years' War, the church's interior was transformed into a Baroque style. Later, Neo-Gothic elements were incorporated, replacing the Baroque and Rococo altarpieces in 1875. In November 1944, during an air raid, the church suffered extensive damage, with phosphorus bombs causing a fire that led to the collapse of the tower's top into the nave. Reconstruction efforts began in 1949, and the church was rededicated on St. Martin's Day in 1951. Legend has it that Berthold Schwarz, a friar, invented gunpowder in the 14th century at the former Franciscan Church. According to the tale, Schwarz mixed saltpeter, sulfur, and charcoal in a mortar, which later exploded. Although gunpowder was already discovered in the 13th century, it is said that black powder was named after Schwarz. A monument to Berthold Schwarz was erected in 1851 on Rathausplatz, in front of the former Franciscan Church. Today, St. Martinskirche provides a peaceful retreat in the middle of downtown Freiburg. Visitors can admire its Gothic architecture, explore its historical elements, and attend worship services.

Popular Experiences near St. Martinskirche

Popular Hotels near St. Martinskirche

Select Currency