St. Martin's catholic church with St. Anne's ossuary

St. Martin's Catholic Church with St. Anne's Ossuary, known locally as Katholische Kirche St. Martin mit Beinhaus St. Anna, is a historical gem nestled in the charming Swiss town of Baar, in the canton of Zug. This ecclesiastical complex is not only a place of worship but also a testament to centuries of architectural evolution and cultural significance. With its roots tracing back to the Merovingian era of the early 8th century, the church has undergone numerous transformations, each adding a layer of historical and architectural richness.

The Historical Evolution

The site of St. Martin's Catholic Church has witnessed the rise and fall of approximately five different churches since its inception. The first structure was erected during the Merovingian period in the early 8th century. The 11th and 12th centuries saw the construction of the tower, likely commissioned by the noble Edeln de Barro. Between 1361 and 1557, the church was transformed into a Gothic edifice, reflecting the architectural tastes of the time. The late Baroque modifications took place from 1769 to 1797, giving the church much of its current appearance. Notably, the self-supporting roof structure was built in 1557, and the roof itself was renovated by carpenter Kunst in 1645. The choir was reconfigured in 2004, ensuring that the church remains a living part of Baar's community.

Architectural Marvels

The exterior of St. Martin's Catholic Church is a harmonious blend of historical styles. The church is adjacent to the old cemetery wall, adding a serene and contemplative atmosphere to the site. The long nave, with its exceptional width, leads to an elevated choir. The apse, a later addition from the 18th century, and the expanded sacristy on the south side, completed in 1962, add to the church's architectural complexity. The north side features a broad, low tower resting on a square plan, supported by thick walls. The three clocks on the tower, created by Liechti of Winterthur in 1526, have been marking the passage of time every quarter-hour since 1604, with a second hand added to each in 1961.

Interior Splendor

Stepping inside St. Martin's Catholic Church is like entering a time capsule. The walls and ceilings, largely from the late Middle Ages, exude a late Rococo charm. The slightly elevated fore-choir, flanked by four side altars, connects to the main choir via a series of steps. Additional steps lead to the master altar, creating a sense of ascending towards the divine. Since the 1645 renovations, the church's ceiling has been self-supporting, free from any pillars.

The statues of John the Baptist, Saint Catherine, Saint Barbara, and Saint Sebastian, crafted by Michael Wickart in 1622, add a touch of artistic elegance. The ceiling painting in the choir, executed by Jost Troxler in the 19th century, depicts the four evangelists, replacing several earlier paintings. Above the organ, a depiction of Jesus Christ escorting Saint Martin to Heaven captures the viewer's attention. The cartouches represent the Eucharist and Redemption, underscoring the church's spiritual themes.

The master altar, constructed in 1777, is a masterpiece of stucco marble, featuring a tabernacle and a depiction of the Apostles witnessing the Coronation of the Virgin. Among the four side altars, three stand out: the Saint Joseph Altar, signed by Xav Zürcher in 1854, featuring statues of Saint Apollonia and Saint Verena; the Altar of the Confraternity of the Girdle, dated 1854, with statues of Saint Nicholas of Tolentino and Saint Charles Borromeo; and the Rosary Altar, signed by M. Paul von Deschwanden, depicting the gift of the rosary to Saint Dominic. The voluminous pulpit, commissioned in 1771 and attributed to Johann Baptist Babel, complements the style and material of the side altars.

The late Middle Ages murals, partially covered in 1855 and restored between 1961 and 1964, reveal fragments of the Apostles' circle, adding to the church's historical narrative. In the sacristy, the painting Triumph of the Eucharist, a copy of the tapestry Ecclesiae triumphus by Peter Paul Rubens (late 17th century), is a visual feast.

St. Anne's Ossuary

Consecrated in 1507, St. Anne's Ossuary is an integral part of the church complex. Its wooden ceiling, carved in 1508, and the late Gothic triptych depicting Saint Anne Trinitarian and the Fourteen Holy Helpers are noteworthy. The Baroque crown represents the Archangel Saint Michael weighing souls. The wooden statue of Christ carrying his cross, dating back to around 1400, adds a poignant touch. The north wall features pilgrim inscriptions and Savoyard coats of arms, while the remaining stalls from the Gothic church date to the second half of the 14th century.

In conclusion, St. Martin's Catholic Church with St. Anne's Ossuary is not just a place of worship; it is a repository of history, art, and culture. Its walls tell stories of bygone eras, its art reflects the spiritual aspirations of its creators, and its architecture stands as a testament to the evolving tastes and technologies of centuries past. A visit to this remarkable site is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Baar's religious and cultural heritage.