: Tours and Excursion

Oude Kerk

The Oude Kerk is Amsterdam's oldest building and oldest parish church, founded in 1213 and consecrated to St. Nicholas. The Gothic-style church stands in the heart of the city's Red Light District, offering a striking contrast between sacred and secular.

History & Origins

The church was originally a wooden chapel built around 1213, later replaced by a stone structure in the 14th century. It served as the city's main Catholic church until the Alteration of 1578 when it became Protestant. The Oude Kerk witnessed many historical events, including the marriage of Rembrandt and Saskia van Uylenburgh in 1634.

The church's floor is composed entirely of gravestones, as it was common practice to bury the dead inside churches until the 19th century. Approximately 2,500 graves are located beneath the church, including those of notable Dutch naval heroes and artists.

During the Reformation, the church was stripped of its Catholic decorations, though some original features remain, such as the stained glass windows in the choir.

Architecture & Features

The Oude Kerk showcases a mix of architectural styles, primarily Gothic with later Renaissance additions. Its most distinctive feature is the wooden vaulted ceiling, the largest in Europe, painted to resemble stone. The church's tower, added in the 16th century, offers panoramic views of Amsterdam.

The interior contains several notable elements including the magnificent Müller organ (1724), the choir screen (1540), and the rare medieval frescoes discovered during restoration work. The church's large windows flood the interior with light, creating a serene atmosphere.

Legends & Facts

1. The church bells are said to have rung spontaneously when the Spanish were defeated during the Siege of Haarlem in 1573.

2. A small cannonball embedded in one of the walls is believed to date from the 1650 Anglo-Dutch Wars.

3. The church's carillon plays every Tuesday between 2-3 PM, continuing a tradition dating back centuries.

Tourist Tips

Begin your visit at the main entrance on Oudekerksplein. The church is best explored clockwise, starting with the nave and moving to the choir area. Don't miss the small exhibition space in the north transept which often hosts contemporary art installations.

Nearby

• Red Light District - Amsterdam's famous neighborhood with historic architecture and canals.
• Amsterdam Museum - Showcasing the city's history from medieval times to the present.
• Nieuwmarkt - Historic square with the 15th-century Waag building and numerous cafes.
• Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder - A hidden Catholic church in the attic of a 17th-century canal house.
• Warmoesstraat - One of Amsterdam's oldest streets, lined with shops and restaurants.

Practical FAQ for Travelers

What are the opening hours?

The church is open Monday-Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM, and Sundays from 1 PM to 5:30 PM.

Is there an entrance fee?

Yes, adults pay 12.50 Euro, students and seniors pay 9 Euro, and children under 13 enter free.

When is the best time to visit?

Mornings are least crowded. Tuesday afternoons offer the chance to hear the carillon performance.

Is photography allowed?

Yes, photography without flash is permitted throughout the church.

Is the church accessible for wheelchair users?

Yes, there is wheelchair access via a side entrance on Oudekerksplein.