Martinikerk

13th-century church beneath the Martini Tower, with a renowned organ

Groningen's oldest church, built in the 13th century in the centre of the medieval town and rebuilt and enlarged over the next three hundred years. The Romanesque nucleus is still visible in the choir, and the late-Gothic vaults of the main hall display a remarkable cycle of 16th-century frescoes — among the largest medieval wall paintings preserved in northern Europe.

The interior is sparer than the exterior suggests, in keeping with the Reformed tradition that took over the church in 1594. The famous Schnitger organ is the centrepiece; concerts are held throughout the year. Climb the adjoining Martini Tower for the best view in the city.

things to do religious site
A story
The Martinikerk hides one of the great instruments of Europe — a baroque organ rebuilt by Arp Schnitger in 1692, on the bones of an earlier 1480 organ, with later additions that still preserve its 15th-century pipes. Recitals are held year-round, and on a quiet afternoon the empty nave amplifies even the smallest stop with startling clarity.

Other places in Things to Do