Martinuskerk

Martinuskerk is a church located at Pastoor Nuijenstraat 3, 1689 GM Zwaag, Netherlands. The church has a rich history and architectural significance, with the current building dating back to the 19th century but earlier buildings on the same site having existed before.

The church features Gothic Revival-style architecture with a distinctive tower and spire, as well as stained-glass windows, a large organ, and intricate stone carvings within its interior. It serves as an important landmark in Zwaag and plays a vital role in the lives of its parishioners and the local community.

The church hosts various events and services throughout the year, including weddings, baptisms, and other religious ceremonies. In terms of its history, Martinuskerk has been an integral part of the community since the 12th century, with significant changes made to the building in the 19th century.

• The church is the only Catholic church in the North Holland village of Zwaag.
• The building was designed in the style of the Amsterdam School.
• On either side of the entrance to the sacristy stand statues of two of the nineteen Martyrs of Gorkum, namely Leonardus van Veghel and Nicolaas Pieck.

Across from the church stands a neo-Gothic Lourdes chapel, which is likely to have been designed by A.C. Bleijs. The Martinuskerk, the sacristy located at the rear, and the statues of the Martyrs of Gorkum are all community monuments.

1. Two bells hang in the tower: the Martinus and Donatus. Both were cast in 1949 by Petit and Fritsen.
2. The original bells were stolen during World War II by the occupying forces.

The church belongs to the parish of Heilige Matheüs, which also includes the Koepelkerk in Hoorn and the Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Visitatie in Oosterblokker. Until 2019, the Michaëlkerk in Blokker was also part of the parish.

In 2012, a vote was held within the parish to determine which church would be closed: Sint-Michaëlkerk or Martinuskerk. The diocese ultimately decided to close the Michaëlkerk in Blokker.

Some original elements from the building's construction period can still be found inside the church. Prior to 1960, there was a men's side and women's side, with signs on the benches indicating where people were supposed to sit.

De Martinuskerk is the only Catholic church in the North Holland village of Zwaag.

The Martinus and Donatus are used as hour bells and call bell. The Martinus is used for a hour bell and call bell, while Donatus is only rung at special occasions.