Sint-Martinuskerk

The Sint-Martinuskerk in Hillegom is a captivating gem of architectural and historical significance nestled in the heart of the Netherlands. This Roman Catholic church, which existed from 1871 to 1926, has an intriguing story that reflects the religious and cultural evolution of the region. Though largely integrated into the current Sint-Jozef en Sint-Martinuskerk after a significant renovation and expansion, the original structure remains a testament to the rich heritage of Hillegom.

The Origins and Construction

Following the Reformation, Hillegom's Catholic community relied on clandestine churches, the last of which was located on Bakummerlaan. The restoration of the episcopal hierarchy in the Netherlands in 1853 spurred the construction of new Roman Catholic churches across the country. However, it took until the 1860s for Hillegom to plan a new church building, as the existing structure had become too small and dilapidated.

In 1870, the foundation of the new church was laid at a cost of 7,000 guilders. The renowned architect Herman Jan van den Brink was commissioned to design the church. On July 15, 1871, the construction contract for the church and tower was awarded to contractor B. Zuidhof from Haarlem, who completed the project for 39,874 guilders.

Architectural Marvel

Van den Brink's design for the Sint-Martinuskerk was a three-aisled basilica in the neo-Gothic style, featuring a semi-integrated tower on the right side of the façade. The main entrance was located at the base of the tower. The nave comprised seven bays, each adorned with pointed arch windows in the lower side aisle and two smaller pointed arch windows in the high clerestory. The three-aisled chancel had a rectangular shape and was directly connected to the nave. It was narrower and lower than the nave and had no windows in the side walls, only a door. A large, high pointed arch window with stained glass occupied most of the rear wall of the chancel, providing light above the high altar. A similar large pointed arch window was installed at the back of the nave, illuminating the choir loft where the church organ was situated.

The exterior of the Sint-Martinuskerk bore a striking resemblance to the Sint-Pancratiuskerk in Sassenheim, also designed by Van den Brink in 1870.

Interior Splendor

The side aisles were separated from the nave by high pointed arches supported by pillars. Each pillar was decorated with four semi-circular columns under the pointed arch, crowned with a capital. The nave was covered with a wooden barrel vault that was polychromed, with some trusses adorned with carved wooden angel figures.

The choir loft at the back of the church featured a wooden balustrade inscribed with a Latin text from Psalm 150: Laudate Dominum in tympano et choro. Laudate Eum chordis et organo, which translates to Praise the Lord with tambourine and dance. Praise Him with strings and flute. At the back left of the church stood a statue of Saint Anthony of Padua, with a donation box for the poor.

In 1882, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Pastor J.C. van Grossel's priesthood, the parishioners gifted the church a main altar made of marl and white marble, designed in neo-Gothic style by the firm J.A. van Oort from Roermond. Wealthy parishioners also commissioned Van Oort to create a richly decorated pulpit with carvings depicting Saint Martin of Tours.

In 1897, on the occasion of Van Grossel's 40th priesthood anniversary, he donated an ornate communion rail, made by the firm J.P. Maas from Haarlem. The choir rail was crafted from various types of marble and granite and richly decorated with reliefs depicting the Wedding at Cana and the Multiplication of the Loaves.

The Grand Organ

For Van Grossel's 25th anniversary as pastor of the Martinus parish in 1901, the parishioners donated a large organ, placed in the choir loft at the back of the church. The organ, built in neo-Gothic style by the firm Maarschalkerweerd from Utrecht, featured 28 registers. The organ bore an inscription commemorating the jubilee: Jubilanti Pastori grati parochiani R°. D°. J.C. van Grossel 1876-1901. The organ was inaugurated in June 1901 with a concert by the renowned composer Philip Loots.

The Tower Bells

The tower housed a large bell named Maria Josephus, cast in 1872 by the bell foundry Petit & Fritsen. The bell, standing 1.2 meters high with a diameter of 1.05 meters and weighing 825 kilograms, was adorned with images of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, along with a consecration inscription.

Renovation and Expansion

In the decades following its construction, Hillegom's population grew significantly due to the burgeoning flower bulb industry. By 1915, a second parish was established, leading to the construction of the Sint-Jozefkerk. Despite this, the Sint-Martinuskerk remained too small. Plans for a new, larger church were made, but due to financial constraints, these were altered to a major renovation and expansion of the existing church.

Between 1924 and 1926, the new church was built, designed by H.P.J. de Vries from Rotterdam. The tower was incorporated into the renovated building with minimal alterations. The church received a new façade, the walls of the nave and side aisles were reused, the roof was raised, and a transept and new chancel were added to the existing nave. The renovated church was consecrated by Bishop Callier on October 6, 1926. The organ from 1901 (in a modified form), the main altar from 1882, and wooden reliefs from the dismantled pulpit are still present in the church as of 2021.

The Sint-Martinuskerk in Hillegom is more than just a church; it is a symbol of the town's rich history and a testament to the enduring faith and dedication of its parishioners. A visit to this historic site is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the architectural and cultural heritage of Hillegom.