Reformierte Martinskirche: A Historic Gem in Chur

Located in the heart of Chur's Old Town, the Reformierte Martinskirche stands as a testament to the city's rich historical and spiritual heritage. Originally built as a Romanesque church in the 8th century, it was consecrated in 769 AD and named after St. Martin, Bishop of Tours. The church was largely destroyed in the fire of 1464 but was rebuilt in the late Gothic style, incorporating elements of its Carolingian predecessor. Construction was completed in 1491, resulting in the largest late-Gothic building in Graubünden. In 1523, the church became the center of the Reformation in Chur, led by Johannes Comander. Today, the Reformierte Martinskirche is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of Chur's historical past. Its architecture features robust stone walls and round arch windows characteristic of the Romanesque period, while pointed arch windows reflect Gothic influences. The imposing bell tower, standing at approximately 22 meters, adds to the church's majestic presence. Inside, visitors can admire stunning frescoes from the medieval and Renaissance eras, stained glass windows, and a carved wooden choir. The church's organ, installed in 1978, boasts 30 stops and serves as a platform for concerts due to its exceptional acoustics. The three glass windows by Augusto Giacometti, added in 1919, depict the Christmas story and are a special feature of the church. Guided tours offer detailed insights into the church's history and architecture.