Dom Tower of Utrecht, Gothic bell tower at Domplein, Netherlands
The Dom Tower is a Gothic bell tower at Domplein in Utrecht and the tallest church tower in the Netherlands, rising about 112 meters high. Visitors who make the climb overcome 465 steps through narrow spiral staircases, passing several historic bell chambers on the way to the viewing platform.
Construction began in 1321 under the direction of John of Hainaut and was meant to form part of Saint Martin's Cathedral. Completion came in 1382, but a heavy storm in the 17th century permanently separated the tower from the rest of the building.
The tower takes its name from the medieval cathedral of Utrecht, though the two structures have stood physically apart for centuries. On feast days the bells ring out across the old town and still mark liturgical moments in city life.
Guided visits take place daily and last about one hour, with the climb requiring reasonable physical fitness. Tickets can be purchased online or at the RonDom visitor center at the base of the tower.
A tornado in 1674 destroyed the cathedral nave and left the tower standing alone at Domplein. To this day, the empty space between tower and choir recalls the lost central section of the once connected complex.
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