Water city church, Protestant church in Amsterdam, Netherlands
The Oude Kerk is a stone church with a wooden vaulted ceiling featuring carved misericords and tall stained glass windows that illuminate the interior. The building's layout includes a main nave with side aisles and galleries, while the floor serves as a burial ground containing thousands of graves.
Construction began in 1213 with a wooden chapel that was eventually replaced by stone walls consecrated in 1306 by the bishop of Utrecht. The building survived centuries of change and remained central to Amsterdam's urban development.
The church functions as an art venue hosting contemporary exhibitions while serving as an active Protestant worship space in the heart of Amsterdam's Red Light District. Visitors experience how this sacred place coexists with the vibrant neighborhood surrounding it, creating an interesting contrast.
Visitors can explore the church at their own pace and view contemporary art exhibitions that are displayed throughout the space. Its central location makes it easily accessible on foot, and the adjoining square provides a good place to rest and orient yourself.
The building houses four separate pipe organs, including the Vater-Müller organ, a Baroque masterpiece of European significance. This collection of organs creates acoustic qualities that transform the space during musical performances.
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