Sint-Maartenskerk 🇧🇪

Discover Saint Martin's Church (Sint-Maartenskerk), the main Roman Catholic church and a principal Gothic monument in Kortrijk, West Flanders, Belgium. Dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours, this historic site carries a rich past dating back to a Roman church built in 650. You will explore a sacred space shaped by resilience, rebuilding, and art.

The first Gothic church burned down following the Battle of Rozenbeke, but a second structure built between 1390 and 1466 left visible remnants that you can still see incorporated into the present-day church. As you walk through the interior, you will encounter the famous Sacramental tower constructed in the choir in 1585. After a devastating fire in 1862 ruined the choir, roof, and tower, the current 19th-century bell tower was erected.

Beyond its architecture, your visit offers a chance to view impressive artworks created by renowned Flemish masters, including Gaspar de Crayer and Bernaert de Rijckere. You can also admire the church's impressive organ, crafted by Pierre Schyven in 1888. Whether you are drawn to centuries of history or classic Flemish art, Saint Martin's Church provides a compelling glimpse into West Flanders' heritage.

What to see at Sint-Maartenskerk

• Visible remnants of the 1390–1466 Gothic construction incorporated into the church
• The famous 1585 Sacramental tower located in the choir
• Artworks by notable Flemish masters including Gaspar de Crayer and Bernaert de Rijckere
• An historic 1888 organ crafted by Pierre Schyven
• The 19th-century bell tower rebuilt following an 1862 fire

Visiting tips

Take time to look closely at the interior structure to spot preserved remnants integrated from the second church built between 1390 and 1466.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Sint-Maartenskerk is easy to reach on Harelbeke’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Harelbeke travel guide.