NeighbourhoodDe Wallen (Red Light District)
Historic Landmarks
Oude Kerk Amsterdam
Step inside the city's oldest structure, a medieval monument where centuries of Dutch history meet cutting-edge contemporary art installations.
Best forMedieval architecture and art
Plan for1–1.5 hours
Worth knowingRembrandt's wife Saskia is buried here
The Old Church
A Living Monument in the Heart of the City
The Oude Kerk is Amsterdam's oldest building, with roots stretching back to the early 13th century. Originally a wooden chapel, it evolved over centuries into a grand Gothic basilica. Today, it sits in a striking location, surrounded by the bustling windows and narrow alleys of the Red Light District, offering a serene and contemplative contrast to its immediate surroundings.
Unlike many historic churches that function solely as museums or places of worship, the Oude Kerk operates as a contemporary art institution. It hosts site-specific installations that interact with the building's vast acoustics and historic fabric. This blend of the ancient and the modern makes it one of the most unique cultural venues in the Netherlands.
Centuries of Change
From Catholic Splendour to Protestant Simplicity
Consecrated in 1306, the church was dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors. For centuries, it was the primary place of worship for Amsterdam’s growing population. However, the Alteration of 1578 saw the city transition from Catholicism to Protestantism. During this period, much of the church's ornate interior, including altars and statues, was removed or destroyed in the 'Beeldenstorm' (iconoclasm).
Despite these changes, the church retained its magnificent medieval wooden vaulting, which remains the largest of its kind in Europe. The floor is paved entirely with gravestones, as the church served as a cemetery for centuries. Notable figures, including naval heroes and Saskia van Uylenburgh, the wife of Rembrandt van Rijn, found their final resting place beneath these stones.
What to See
Architectural and Artistic Treasures
Architecture
Medieval Wooden Vaults
Look up to see the massive 14th-century wooden roof. It still features remnants of medieval paintings and is renowned for providing the church with its exceptional acoustics.
Music
The Vater-Müller Organ
One of the most famous instruments in the world, this grand baroque organ dates back to 1724. It is frequently used for concerts and recordings due to its rich, historic sound.
History
Saskia’s Gravestone
Locate the grave of Saskia van Uylenburgh, Rembrandt’s wife. It is a site of pilgrimage for art lovers and a poignant reminder of the church's role as the city's central burial ground.
The Experience
Planning Your Visit
Morning
Quiet Contemplation
Visit shortly after opening at 10:00 to experience the church at its quietest. The morning light filtering through the high windows highlights the texture of the stone floor.
Afternoon
Tower Climbs
The Oudekerkstoren (tower) is often accessible for guided climbs. It offers one of the best panoramic views over the historic center and the surrounding canals.
Evening
Art and Events
Check the calendar for evening organ recitals or special art openings. The atmosphere changes dramatically when the church is illuminated at night.
Visual Heritage
A Masterpiece of Brick and Light
The Oude Kerk is a masterclass in Dutch Gothic architecture. Its expansive windows were once filled with stained glass, though only a few 16th-century fragments remain today. The interplay of light across the 2,500 gravestones creates a somber yet beautiful environment that has inspired artists for generations.
Visitor Essentials
Tickets and Times
The Oude Kerk is an active cultural space and charges an admission fee to support the maintenance of the monument and its art programs. It is recommended to book tickets online in advance to ensure entry, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Official Oude Kerk WebsiteOpening Hours
Daily Access
Open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 18:00, and Sunday from 13:00 to 17:30. Note that hours may change for religious services or special events.
Location
Oudekerksplein
Located at Oudekerksplein 23. The square itself is a historic site, featuring the 'Belle' statue dedicated to sex workers worldwide.
Bookable experiences
Experiences around Oude Kerk.
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Getting There
Central Accessibility
The Oude Kerk is a short 5-to-10-minute walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station. Simply walk south toward the Damrak and turn into the Red Light District. Due to the narrow, cobbled streets of the De Wallen area, the church is best reached on foot. Public transport users can also take the metro to Nieuwmarkt station, which is approximately 5 minutes away.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Oude Kerk still a functioning church?⌄
Yes, while it primarily serves as a museum and art space, a Protestant congregation still holds services here on Sunday mornings.
Can I climb the tower?⌄
The Oudekerkstoren is managed separately from the church interior. Guided tours to the top are available seasonally and offer views of the city center.
Is the church accessible for visitors with disabilities?⌄
The main floor of the church is generally accessible, though the historic gravestone floor is uneven. The tower climb is not accessible for those with mobility issues.