Waalse Kerk

Waalse Kerk is a church from medieval times with stone walls and an upper gallery situated within a residential community area in Haarlem. A bell tower with a historic bell dating to 1512 defines the building's silhouette.

The building began in 1348 as a monastery chapel and underwent major transformation in the 16th century. French-speaking refugees found shelter there and converted it into a Protestant space.

The church serves as a gathering place for French-speaking residents and maintains services in their language as a core part of community identity. Regular musical performances here reflect the space's role in bringing people together across different backgrounds.

The building serves as a venue where different rooms are used for gatherings and cultural programs. Visitors should check in advance what activities or access times currently apply.

The 1808 organ houses a hidden mechanical clock system in its attic space that controls a timepiece displayed on its front. This concealed craftsmanship reveals the technical skill of builders from centuries past.

Location: Haarlem

Inception: 1348

Address: Begijnhof 28 -30-32

GPS coordinates: 52.38220,4.63917

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:20