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St. John's Cathedral Den Bosch

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St. John's Cathedral Den Bosch (Netherlands)

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St. John's Cathedral (Sint-Janskathedraal) in 's-Hertogenbosch is the pinnacle of Brabantine Gothic architecture and one of the most prestigious religious buildings in the Netherlands. Construction of the current cathedral began around 1380 and reached completion near 1530. The cathedral is renowned for its extraordinarily rich sculptural decoration, most notably the 96 stone figures perched on the double flying buttresses, depicting biblical scenes and glimpses of medieval daily life. Inside, it houses the revered 13th-century statue of 'Our Lady of Den Bosch,' making the cathedral a significant site for Catholic pilgrimage. Other highlights include the monumental 17th-century pipe organ and the intricately carved late Gothic choir stalls. The cathedral underwent a comprehensive restoration between 1970 and 2010, which saw the addition of modern touches, such as a sculpture of an angel holding a mobile phone. As the seat of the Diocese of 's-Hertogenbosch, it remains a world-class monument and a living center of spiritual life.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C2361014171918151173
Rain mm726156406062767955636977

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
St. John's Cathedral in 's-Hertogenbosch is open to visitors, and the interior can be viewed during opening hours. Entry is usually free, although donations are welcome.
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Typical hours
Large cathedrals are typically open daily from morning until early evening, with breaks for services. Public holidays may have different hours.
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Photography
Photography inside is usually allowed without flash and tripod. In certain areas, such as near the high altar, photography may be restricted.
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Time needed
Allow about 45 to 60 minutes for viewing the cathedral interior. If you want to visit the crypt or treasury, add another 30 minutes.
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Combine with
The cathedral is located in central 's-Hertogenbosch, near the market square and the Noordbrabants Museum. A walk through the historic old town with its canals is recommended.
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Getting there
From 's-Hertogenbosch's main train station, the cathedral is about a 15-minute walk. Buses on lines 80 and 81 stop near the market square.
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Insider tip
Climb the cathedral tower for a fantastic view over the city. Look out for guided tours that often include the crypt and roof structure.

Geography

Coordinates
51.68750, 5.30890

Facts

  • The cathedral is unique in the Netherlands for its double flying buttress system.
  • The building measures 115 meters in length, with a nave height of 27 meters.
  • The heavy bell named 'Roeland' weighs approximately 3,600 kilograms.
  • In 1985, the cathedral was granted the title of 'Basilica Minor' by Pope John Paul II.
  • The 'Angel with a Mobile Phone' sculpture is located on the southern side.
  • The massive 17th-century organ is considered one of the finest in Europe.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

's-Hertogenbosch's-Hertogenbosch1 km · NExplore →
RosmalenRosmalen5 km · NEExplore →
VlijmenVlijmen7 km · WExplore →
SchijndelSchijndel12 km · SEExplore →
DrunenDrunen12 km · WExplore →
HeusdenHeusden13 km · NWExplore →
ZaltbommelZaltbommel13 km · NExplore →
Loonse en Drunense DuinenLoonse en Drunense Duinen14 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town St. John's Cathedral Den Bosch (10)

De Belengel

Viewpoint overlooking the rooftops of Den Bosch, near the cathedral.

Museum Slager🏛 museum

Museum about the Slager painter family, with works from the 19th and 20th centuries.

🕒 Tu-Sa 11:00-17:00; Su 13:00-17:00; PH off💶

Sint-Janskathedraal

Gothic cathedral in ’s-Hertogenbosch, known for its rich interior.

♿🆓

Zwanenbroedershuis🏛 museum

Historic building, meeting place of a brotherhood in the city center.

Huis73

Arts centre with library, events, and creative workshops.

Podium de Azijnfabriek

Theatre in a former vinegar factory, with a varied programme.

Jheronimus Bosch Art Center🏛 museum

Art center showcasing the life and works of painter Jheronimus Bosch.

Sint Josephkerk⛪ church

Church building in Den Bosch, used for worship services.

Droge Binnendieze

Dried-up city canal, now a walking path along old walls.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why are the flying buttresses special?
They are decorated with 96 unique figures.
What style is the cathedral?
It is built in the Brabantine Gothic style.
Can you climb the tower?
Yes, tours are offered regularly.
Where is the cathedral located?
In the heart of 's-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch).
What is the angel figure with a cell phone?
A modern statue added in 2011.
St. John's Cathedral Den Bosch: where is it located?
St. John's Cathedral Den Bosch is located in North Brabant, Netherlands.
St. John's Cathedral Den Bosch: what is there to see?
Highlights include De Belengel, Museum Slager, Theater aan de Parade.
St. John's Cathedral Den Bosch: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
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