Église Saint-Thomas

Overview

The Église Saint-Thomas is Strasbourg's principal Protestant church — a Gothic hall church known as the 'Protestant Cathedral.' It houses one of Alsace's greatest artistic treasures: the monumental Tomb of Marshal Saxe by Jean-Baptiste Pigalle.

Highlights

• Tomb of Marshal Saxe: Pigalle's theatrical 18th-century marble monument is one of the masterpieces of French Baroque sculpture.
• Silbermann Organ: A remarkable 1741 organ by Andreas Silbermann, played by Mozart in 1778 and still used for recitals.
• Hall Church: The five-aisled Gothic hall configuration — with all aisles the same height — is unusual and creates a vast, open interior.

History

The church was built between the 12th and 15th centuries and adopted Protestantism in 1524, becoming the principal Reformed church in Alsace. It is the only Protestant church in Alsace with a grand sepulchral monument — the Tomb of Marshal Saxe, installed in 1777.

Visitor Tips

• Organ Recitals: Regular concerts showcase the historic Silbermann organ — check the church website.
• Short Visit: The Tomb of Saxe alone justifies a quick visit.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.