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Oude Kerk Amsterdam
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The Oude Kerk (Old Church) is the oldest surviving building in Amsterdam, located in the heart of the city's Red Light District. Its history dates back to 1213, when it began as a simple wooden chapel. Over the centuries, it was expanded into a monumental Gothic hall church and was consecrated in 1306 to Saint Nicholas. The church served as a burial ground for generations of prominent citizens, most notably Saskia van Uylenburgh, the wife of the famous painter Rembrandt. Notable features include its 16th-century stained glass windows and intricately carved choir stalls. Following the Reformation in 1578, the church became Protestant, leading to a more austere interior. Today, the Oude Kerk functions both as a place of worship and a contemporary art space, hosting modern installations that create a dialogue with its centuries-old architectural heritage.
- Location: North Holland, Netherlands
- Top sights: Old Church · Oudekerksbrug · Liesdelsluis
- Nearby: Diemen (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 4 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 15 | 12 | 8 | 5 |
| Rain mm | 75 | 64 | 53 | 40 | 57 | 63 | 81 | 90 | 70 | 78 | 76 | 81 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Oude Kerk is open to visitors, both the interior and the exterior are accessible. It is Amsterdam's oldest parish church and an active cultural center.
Typical hours
The church is typically open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00. On Mondays and public holidays it may be closed or have different hours.
Photography
Photography inside the church is allowed without flash and tripod. The Gothic architecture and medieval stained-glass windows are especially photogenic.
Time needed
Allow about 45 minutes to an hour for a visit. The church also hosts changing art exhibitions, which can extend your stay.
Combine with
Combine the visit with a walk through the Red Light District where the church is located. The nearby Dam Square with the Royal Palace is also within walking distance.
Getting there
Oude Kerk is located in central Amsterdam and can be reached by tram (lines 4, 9, 14) or bus. It is about a 10-minute walk from Central Station.
Insider tip
Visit the church during an organ demonstration, often held on Saturdays. The acoustics and atmosphere are especially impressive then.
Geography
Facts
- The oldest building in Amsterdam, with origins dating to 1213.
- Consecrated in 1306 and dedicated to Saint Nicholas.
- Rembrandt's wife, Saskia van Uylenburgh, is buried within the church.
- Features a historic 17th-century carillon by Francois Hemony.
- The floor is comprised of over 2,500 gravestones covering the entire area.
- Converted from Catholic to Protestant during the Reformation in 1578.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Oude Kerk Amsterdam (10)
Red Light Secrets🏛 museum
Museum about the red-light district, its history and daily life.
Red Light District
Largest and best-known red-light district in Amsterdam, famous for window prostitution.
Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder
Museum in a hidden 17th-century church in the attic.
Majoor Bosshardtbrug
Bridge over the Oudezijds Voorburgwal in the red-light district.
Kompakt meets Oz
Gallery with rotating exhibitions of contemporary art.
The red lights street
Street in the red-light district, lined with red neon lights and bars.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is special about the Oude Kerk?
It is Amsterdam's oldest surviving building and is located in the heart of the Red Light District.
Can you climb the tower?
Yes, the tower can be climbed during the season with a guided tour.
Is the church still in use?
Today it mainly serves as a contemporary art museum, but services are still held.
Who is buried here?
Saskia van Uylenburgh, Rembrandt's wife, is buried here.
Are there organ concerts?
Yes, the church is famous for its historical organs and regular concerts.
Oude Kerk Amsterdam: where is it located?
Oude Kerk Amsterdam is located in North Holland, Netherlands.
Oude Kerk Amsterdam: what is there to see?
Highlights include Old Church, Oudekerksbrug, Liesdelsluis.
Oude Kerk Amsterdam: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Oude Kerk Amsterdam: why is it worth visiting?
The Oude Kerk (Old Church) is the oldest surviving building in Amsterdam, located in the heart of the city's Red Light District.
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