Why the Church of St Martin is so famous in Tours?
Although the most famous church in Tours is Tours Cathedral there is no doubt that the popularity of St Martin is known worldwide.
Although many may don't know that St Martin was bishop in Tours, his story is one of the most moving and one of the highest examples of generosity and altruism.
St Martin is considered a spiritual bridge across Europe: he was born in Hungary, grew up in Italy and spent his adult time in France, becoming bishop of Tours.
He is best known for the account of his using his military sword to cut his cloak in two, to give half to a beggar clad only in rags in the depth of winter. Conscripted as a soldier into the Roman army, he found the duty incompatible with the Christian faith he had adopted and became an early conscientious objector.
What is so special to see in St Martin's Church in Tours?
The church is a wonderful building built in Neo Bizantine style in the XIX century.
The atmosphere in the church is absolutely rare and inspiring, but the best to see is certainly the crypt.
In the crypt in a beautiful neoclassical altar is preserved the body of Saint Martin.
The Church is a popular stop for the pilgrims walking from France towards Santiago de Compostela in Spain.
What else to see in Tours?
Tours is a beautiful town, rich in history and architecture.
The town is medieval but it possesses many beautiful buildings including wonderful bars, restaurants, museums and a wonderful walk along the river Loire.
Of all the monuments we absolutely recommend to visit Tours Cathedral.
A great thanks goes to Anne-Claire and Ludo Chêne-Geffroy for making this post possible.
Where are the other most amazing
cathedrals in Europe?
Tours Cathedral - One of the most famous Chatedrals in Europe
An act of love and an act of power (Visiting Nantes #2 - The Cathedral)
The Cathedral of Light - Visiting the model of Ken Follett's Kingsbridge Cathedral in The Pillars of Earth - Salisbury Cathedral