Sint-Bonifatiuskerk, Romanesque church in Vries, Netherlands.
Sint-Bonifatiuskerk is a Romanesque church in Vries built from tuff stone, combining a sturdy Romanesque tower with a later Gothic brick choir. The single-aisle structure displays a striking contrast between the heavy stone tower and the refined red brick of the later addition.
Construction began in the 12th century with the tower completed around 1150, establishing a solid Romanesque foundation. The early 15th century brought a Gothic brick choir addition that updated the building as architectural styles evolved.
The name honors Saint Bonifatius, a missionary who brought Christianity to the region. The building serves as a gathering place for the local Protestant community and remains a focal point of village life today.
The church sits centrally at Brink in Vries and is easily reached on foot, with regular Protestant services open to visitors. Access is generally available, but checking hours beforehand is wise if you plan to spend time exploring the interior.
During repairs between 1946 and 1949, workers found a bell mold from 1516 in front of the church, now kept in the consistory museum. This discovery hints at the village's former role in crafting items for churches and its connection to local metalworking traditions.
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