Archaeological site Gennep - The woodden church

The origins of Gennep can be traced back to the exact spot in which this portal tower stands. An excavation uncovered the remains of wooden posts wrapped in animal skins to prevent decay. The posts were part of a wooden church that was built here between the 7th and 9th centuries, providing us with a glimpse of the history of the faith. After the Migration Period, the Merovingian kings brought peace to the region. Christians could be found among the Roman soldiers and traders.

Hundreds of years later, a massive conversion of the local population ensued. In the 16th century, the Catholic community of Gennep was part of the Duchy of Cleves. It was a safe haven for religions that faced prosecution elsewhere. From 1545, Roman Catholics and Protestants held joint services in St. Martin’s Church.
The church survived many natural disasters and destructions and was restored time and again. During the Second World War, the nave of the church was completely destroyed, but its tower, built in 1869, remained intact.

Until the liberation in February 1945, it served as an observation post for the German occupying forces. The two small bells were removed from the tower to be melted down for the war industry, but fortunately, they survived. They eventually made their way back to Gennep, where, together with the big bell, they now ordain the tower of the new St. Martin’s Church. The tower was renovated in 2010 and continues to be a landmark for Gennep.
With an altitude of 46 metres, it is now a visitor centre. Make the 17-metre climb and discover the history of Gennep and the lovely view across the surrounding countryside.

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NOTE: The Archeo location is on the square in front of the house on Torenstraat 17

Visit other Archeo route Limburg locations