De Nieuwe Kerk

De Nieuwe Kerk in Amsterdam is famous for its much talked-about exhibitions. With hundreds of thousands of visitors every year, the church is one of the most highly attended exhibition locations in the Netherlands. The large-scale exhibitions on treasures from other countries, cultures and religions are very well-known.


Amsterdam’s (New Church) is located next to the Royal Palace on Dam square. Dating back to 1408, the Nieuwe Kerk is not really that new at all, but is so called as it is newer than the Oude Kerk (old church).

Historic building
Over the centuries the Nieuwe Kerk burnt down three times – in 1421, 1452 and the Great Fire of1645. Several important historical figures are buried in the Nieuwe Kerk, including naval hero Admiral De Ruyter, and the poets PC Hooft and Joost van den Vondel. The sundial on the tower was used as the standard to set all the city clocks until 1890.

Ceremonious venue
Nowadays, the Nieuwe Kerk is used as a cultural centre, regularly accommodating exhibitions, organ recitals and state occasions, like the wedding of Maxima to Prince Willem Alexander in 2002.