De Nieuwe Kerk Amsterdam is renowned across the world for its exquisite architecture, ever-changing exhibitions, and its unique connection to the Dutch royal family. The church, which dates back more than six centuries, is situated in the center of the town.
1. History of Nieuwe Kerk Amsterdam
The bishop of Utrecht approved the construction of a second parish church, the Nieuwe Kerk, when the Oude Kerk (Old Church), which had grown too small for the town’s growing population, did not have enough space (New Church).
It started in 1380 and was completed in 1408. The first services were held in 1410 after this new church was dedicated to St. Mary and St. Catharine in 1409.
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The church was harmed by the city fires of 1421 and 1452 and almost completely burned down in 1645. It was then reconstructed in the Gothic style. The structure was also converted to a Dutch Reformed church in 1578. Besides, it underwent extensive renovations between 1892 and 1914, adding many neo-Gothic elements, and again between 1959 and 1980.
Additionally, the second refurbishment proved to be costly for the Dutch Reformed Church, necessitating its closure most of the time to reduce maintenance costs. Ownership of the church was also given in 1979 to the Nationale Stichting De Nieuwe Kerk, a recently established cultural organization, to keep it open.
2. Nieuwe Kerk Amsterdam today
The Nieuwe Kerk now serves as an exhibition venue rather than a place of worship. Additionally, organ performances take place there. One of the structures connected to the church contains a café with a church entrance. Inside the entryway is a museum shop where you may buy anything related to the church and its exhibits, including postcards, books, and souvenirs.
The chapel is used for Dutch royal weddings, most recently the nuptials of Willem-Alexander to Máxima in 2002, as well as royal investiture ceremonies, most recently that of King Willem-Alexander in 2013.
3. What is special about Nieuwe Kerk Amsterdam?
Statues honoring naval heroes
Famous Dutch maritime heroes, including Admiral Michiel de Ruyter, Commodore Jan van Galen, and Jan van Speyk are also buried at De Nieuwe Kerk. Joost van den Vondel, a playwright and poet is also interred there.
It now serves as an exhibition venue rather than a place of worship. The enormous church structure is also definitely worth seeing.
Governmental ceremonies
The national Remembrance Day service is held annually in this 15th-century chapel on May 4. Additionally, it is the location of royal coronations. The Nieuwe Kerk Amsterdam also served as the site of Queen Beatrix’s official inauguration in 1980 and the wedding of King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima on February 2, 2002 (02-02-02).
Space for displays
Besides, with roughly 500,000 visitors a year and notable exhibitions covering art, photography, and influential people and cultures, De Nieuwe Kerk is a well-liked exhibition location.
4. Visit Nieuwe Kerk Amsterdam
To use your City Card to visit this facility, no appointment is necessary. Verify that your City Card is still active before you visit.
Opening hours:
- Daily: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Thursday: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Closed 1 January & 25 December.
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