Great Church

Naarden, Netherlands

The Great Church (Grote Kerk) dates from the 15th century. Prior to the Protestant Reformation it was named for St. Vitus. It survived the Spanish invasion of 1572 and the subsequent burning of the town. The church has numerous wooden vaults that are painted with scenes from the Old and New Testaments. These were hidden for many years and were only rediscovered in a recent restoration. The church is the venue for a number of cultural activities such as organ music nights and the bi-annual Naarden Photo festival.

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Details

Founded: 15th century
Category: Religious sites in Netherlands

More Information

www.grotekerknaarden.nl

Rating

4.5/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Dr. Akbar Zubairi (2 years ago)
Nice old church building in the centre of the town.
Andreas VanderSchaaf (2 years ago)
It's rather unique experience to visit The 'Grand Church in Naarden Vesting. The ancient history of the Netherlands and specifically the province of North Holland can be seen in and around this landmark church dating back to the times when Charles V reigned this land. Many events, socially, historically and musically take places here the whole year around including the 'Mattäus Passion'.
Jim Allison (2 years ago)
A wonderful place to experience Matthew Passion each Easter season. A pleasant 30 minute walk from the train station, with excellent restaurants in the center of Naarden.
Jana Schnaubeltová (2 years ago)
Nice church, playground behind and Commenius statue on the side. In the historical center of Naarden. We hope to return here soon.
Argha Nandy (3 years ago)
This is very well maintained church in Naarden. The architecture is simply magnificent. The structure is huge and has an imposing presence on the square. At the church entrance you also get pamplets in various languages at free of cost. These pamplets contains the detailed description of the objects and artefacts that are kept there. There is no entry fee and can be accessed by anyone. The church has been well maintained and preserved. The medieval irgans are definitely one of the main attractions. Definitely one can visit this place after a trip of the vesting museum.
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Visby Cathedral (also known as St. Mary’s Church) is the only survived medieval church in Visby. It was originally built for German merchants and inaugurated in 1225. Around the year 1350 the church was enlarged and converted into a basilica. The two-storey magazine was also added then above the nave as a warehouse for merchants.

Following the Reformation, the church was transformed into a parish church for the town of Visby. All other churches were abandoned. Shortly after the Reformation, in 1572, Gotland was made into its own Diocese, and the church designated its cathedral.

There is not much left of the original interior. The font is made of local red marble in the 13th century. The pulpit was made in Lübeck in 1684. There are 400 graves under the church floor.