Nederlands Hervormde Kerk, Anloo, Romanesque church in Anloo, Netherlands
The Nederlands Hervormde Kerk is a Romanesque church in Anloo featuring a tower from the 12th century topped with a saddle roof and a Gothic choir section added in the 14th century. The building combines these architectural periods in a single unified structure that has served the community for centuries.
The church was built around 1100 as a proprietary church of the Archbishop of Utrecht, initially serving judicial functions alongside religious ones. Over time it evolved into the main house of worship for the surrounding village.
The interior walls display frescoes from the 13th century showing scenes from Mary's life, including the Annunciation and the Birth of Christ. These painted walls reveal how medieval worshippers encountered religious stories through visual art during their time at the church.
The church is located in the heart of Anloo village and can be easily spotted from the main road. As a protected monument it has set visiting hours, so checking locally before your visit ensures you find the doors open.
Inside you will find two decorated gentlemen's pews from the 17th century showing how wealthy male parishioners claimed their seating spaces during worship. An 18th-century copper stand designed to hold candles and an hourglass is also preserved.
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