Adjacent to the Royal Palace is Nieuwe Kerk, a church of the highest order. Akin to the Gothic churches of France, it was built circa 1400 due to the shortage of churches in the city and over the years, many changes have been made. The New Church remarkably managed to escape major damage in 1421 and 1452, the two great fires of Amsterdam, although two centuries later it was reduced to ashes when plumbers accidentally started a fire. The church however has been faithfully restored to its former glory, exhibiting the original early Renaissance style features throughout even though it remains tower-less.
Since 1815, Dutch monarchs and other members of the Royal Family have been officially inaugurated here, including the late Queen Beatrix, Queen Wilhelmina and Queen Juliana. On 2 February 2002, the Prince of Orange and Princess Máxima married in the beautiful church. In between coronations and weddings, the New Church houses art galleries and temporary exhibitions.
Inside, admire the elaborate altar, arched nave, great pipe organ, sepulchral monuments and stained-glass windows. But if you want to take pictures, ask permission first. Entrance is free.
Opening times:
- Daily from 10am – 6pm
- Thursday 10am – 10pm
- Closed 25 December & 1 January
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