St. Thomas Church: Strasbourg's Protestant Cathedral
Discover Strasbourg's 'Protestant Cathedral,' a stunning Gothic church with rich history, art, and music.
St. Thomas Church, or Église Saint-Thomas, stands as a testament to Strasbourg's rich religious history and architectural prowess. The site has been a place of worship since the 6th century, with the current Gothic structure dating back to the 12th century. The church earned the nickname 'Protestant Cathedral' after the Strasbourg Cathedral reverted to Catholicism in 1681, becoming the main Lutheran church in the city. Inside, the five-naved hall church showcases Alsatian Gothic art, with a soaring spire and intricate details. Light streams through stained-glass windows, illuminating the elaborate stone carvings. The church is home to the impressive mausoleum of Maréchal de Saxe, a masterpiece of 18th-century baroque funerary art, and the richly decorated sarcophagus of Bishop Adelochus. St. Thomas Church is also renowned for its historic organs. The 1741 Silbermann organ, played by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in 1778, has been faithfully restored. Another organ, built in 1905, was designed by Albert Schweitzer. Visitors can explore the church's captivating tombs, including the tombstone of Nicholas Roeder von Tiersburg, and admire the medieval rose window.
Local tips
- Visit during the week to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the church's serene atmosphere.
- Check the schedule for organ recitals to experience the historic Silbermann organ.
- Note that the church is closed in January and the first two weeks of February.
A brief summary to St. Thomas Church
- 11 Rue Martin Luther, Strasbourg, 67000, FR
- +33388321446
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 1:30 pm-5 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From Strasbourg's central train station (Gare de Strasbourg), the church is approximately a 15-minute walk. Head east on Place de la Gare, then turn left onto Rue de Metz. Continue onto Quai Kléber, then turn right onto Rue Thomann. Finally, turn left onto Rue Martin Luther; the church will be on your left.
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Public Transport
From the Strasbourg train station, take tram line A or D to the Langstross/Grand'Rue stop. From there, it is a short walk to the church. Tram tickets cost approximately €1.70.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Strasbourg. A taxi ride from the Strasbourg train station to St. Thomas Church typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic.
