Nieuwezijds Kapel, Amsterdam

Nieuwezijds Kapel is a Protestant church building from the 20th century with mixed architectural elements, located behind a row of shops along Rokin and Kalverstraat streets. The structure integrates seamlessly with the surrounding urban landscape, combining its religious function with the busy street life of central Amsterdam.

The current building replaced a medieval chapel from 1347, which was built after a reported miraculous event involving a consecrated host drew the faithful. The chapel underwent several transformations during the Reformation, reflecting changes in its religious purpose and use.

The chapel reflects Amsterdam's religious diversity, where Protestant and other faith communities have coexisted for centuries. You can see how the space draws different visitors who come to pray and find moments of quiet reflection in the city center.

The chapel is easily reached from Rokin and Kalverstraat streets through passages that connect it to the surrounding shops and pedestrian areas. Access is through narrow passages that form part of the historic city layout, making it a natural stop while walking through the center.

Original fragments of the medieval predecessor chapel remain visible in the Enge Kapelsteeg passage, showing the long history of the site. The historic spire from the old chapel was later moved to the De Papegaai church, where it now crowns the roof.