THOMAS

While the exterior of Strasbourg’s Protestant cathedral, St. Thomas, impresses with its Romanesque massiveness and early Gothic details, the interior is characterized by Gothic stylistic elements. In addition to its religious significance as the most important Protestant church in Alsace and Lorraine, St. Thomas is also renowned for its organs. The Silbermann organ is the better-known of the two; Mozart himself once played it. It is located in the gallery above the main portal, while the smaller, less conspicuous organ, designed by Albert Schweitzer, is situated in the choir area. In general, the church remains closely associated with Albert Schweitzer, one of the most impressive figures of the 20th century, whose books are also available for purchase in the entrance area. Since religious communities in France receive little support from the secular state, yet their Christian sacred buildings shape the country’s cultural heritage, the parish welcomes donations for their preservation. I write this as a Catholic with regard to all Christian churches.

I loved that church, and they have an old clarinet played by Mozart!

St. Thomas Church, located at Place Saint-Thomas in Strasbourg, is a significant example of Alsatian Gothic architecture. Constructed between the late 12th and early 16th centuries on a site with religious roots dating back to the 6th century, it has been a Protestant place of worship since 1524. Notable features include the impressive mausoleum of Marshal de Saxe, an 18th-century baroque masterpiece, and the historic organ played by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The church is open to visitors Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (extended to 6 p.m. in spring and summer), and on Sundays from 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. (until 5:30 p.m. in spring and summer). It is closed in January and the first two weeks of February, and during services. Admission is free. Visitors appreciate its serene atmosphere and rich history, making it a worthwhile stop in Strasbourg.    

After I was not let into the Cathedral, I checked this church and it was amazing. Interesting historical building with traces of Romanesque and Gothic styles, lots of interesting tombstones, some medieval frescoes, stained glass windows, beautiful light and spiritual atmosphere. The admission is free, but there is a donation box. Well worth visiting!

An old temple where you can hear the organ and the choir singing. It is free to enter, but there is no free parking. Inside you can get a leaflet with detailed information. The few remaining frescoes on the walls are really interesting.

Église Saint-Thomas de Strasbourg was built between the 12th and 16th centuries, incorporating Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. Since Strasbourg Cathedral returned to Catholicism after the annexation of the city by France in 1681, Saint-Thomas has served as the main Lutheran church of the city. Inside, it houses a 1741 Silbermann organ and the mausoleum of Marshal Maurice de Saxe, created in 1777, both in the Baroque style.

St. Thomas Church is located along Rue Martin Luther at Place Saint-Thomas and is the main Lutheran church in Strasbourg. I enjoyed seeing the late 12th to mid 16th-centuries architecture, giving St. Thomas both noticeable Romanesque and Gothic features. Within there is an organ which was played by Mozart as well as modestly decorated nave, side aisles lined with sarcophagi and tombs dating back to the 12th-century. It is an interesting historic church to view from the outside and to spend a few minutes browsing within.

While this is not the most famous of the churches in town, it's history, architecture, sculpture, and magnificent organ deserves a visit. Pro tip: visiting this Lutheran church is free, and there are friendly and helpful staff that will offer you a paper guide, available in multiple languages, to make your visit meaningful.