Spirit of Amsterdam: the Old Church

Reflecting the city’s history

First build around 1250 on the site where an wooden church stood even earlier, the original structure has been expanded upon over the centuries. Like many churches in the Netherlands, it was converted to Protestant use during the Reformation. Over the years, a who’s who of Amsterdam society has been buried here, such as the famous organist Jan Sweelinck and Frans Banning Cocq, the central figure in Rembrandt’sThe Night Watch. Not only is the Oude Kerk a beautiful building, its historic location makes it a must see for any history or culture buff.

Must see!

The church has retained its vaulted wooden ceiling, complete with medieval era paintings of saints, Biblical scenes and coats of arms. Built on a cemetery, the floor is entirely paved with gravestones and visitors can look for Saskia van Uylenburgh, Rembrandt’s wife, buried under vault 28k. The church also boasts an impressive Christian Müller organ, still in use today. In addition, visitors shouldn’t miss the proverbs scattered around the church’s interior. For instance, the carvings under the choir stalls, or misericords, relate the playfulness and wisdom of medieval proverbs, such as:

• "It's like trying to out-yawn an oven" (Attempting the impossible)

• "By forging, one becomes a smith" (One learns by doing)

Cultural events – What to do

With its excellent acoustics, the church often hosts world-renowned orchestral, organ and choir concerts. It also accommodates art and photo exhibitions, most notably the annual awards ceremony for the World Press Photo Exhibition. If accompanied by a guide, visitors can climb the tower to enjoy spectacular views over the city. A Carillon Concert takes place every Tuesday at 2 p.m. and Saturday at 4 p.m., with the bridge in front of the church providing the best spot to take in this charming weekly event.