Église Saint-Matthieu de Colmar (Saint Matthew Church), Colmar

Saint Matthew Church (Eglise Saint‑Matthieu) is a striking Gothic-Maritime jewel nestled in the historic center of Colmar. Originally established by Franciscan monks in 1292 as their convent church, it was completed around 1335 in the characteristic mendicant order style-simple yet elegant, with pointed arches supported by octagonal columns. In 1543, Colmar’s town council acquired the building and repurposed it as a hospital, before granting it to the Protestant community in 1575 following the Lutheran Reformation.

Architecturally, Saint Matthew is a study in sober beauty. Its nave and remaining aisles are covered by flat wooden ceilings painted in the 17th century with intricate black vine motifs and carved faces. A former lettner (separating screen) stands between nave and choir; the stunning 1731 Silbermann organ graces the upper gallery, celebrated not only for its visual craftsmanship but for the church’s exceptional acoustics, which now make it a venue for the annual Colmar International Music Festival.

Visiting the church, you’ll encounter delicately painted oil panels by Jean‑Baptiste Wulcken depicting Old and New Testament scenes, arranged along the balcony railings. The stained‑glass windows present striking biblical imagery, including medieval crucifixion scenes and Reformers like Martin Luther and Christ himself-all testimony to the region’s layered heritage.

Saint Matthew is more than a religious site-it’s a cultural landmark that narrates stories of monastic life, Reformation conflicts, and artistic revival. Whether you seek quiet contemplation, architectural beauty, or musical heritage, this church offers a memorable glimpse into Alsace’s spiritual and cultural soul.