Basilica of Saint Nicholas - Church

The Basilica of Saint Nicholas on Prins Hendrikkade is one of the most impressive churches in Amsterdam and stands diagonally opposite Amsterdam Central Station.

Admire the Basilica of Saint Nicholas

• Monumental architecture: The basilica was built between 1884 and 1887 to a design by Adrianus Bleijs and combines Neo-Baroque and Neo-Renaissance elements.
• Distinctive location: The church stands close to the old harbour and is dedicated to Saint Nicholas, patron saint of Amsterdam and, among others, sailors.
• 58-metre-high dome: Once inside, be sure to look up at the impressive dome with its colourful stained-glass starry sky, one of the church's main highlights.

Top sights inside the Basilica of Saint Nicholas

The richly decorated interior contains paintings, sculptures and religious art that make a visit far more rewarding than simply viewing the exterior.

• Surprisingly rich interior: Behind the dark brick façade lies a colourful church filled with paintings, marble, stained glass and sculpture.
• Paintings by Jan Dunselman: Large parts of the interior are decorated with colourful scenes depicting, among other subjects, the life and legends of Saint Nicholas.
• Stations of the Cross: See the fourteen monumental Stations of the Cross painted by Dunselman between 1891 and 1898.
• Miracle of Amsterdam: In the left transept, paintings tell the story of the famous Miracle of Amsterdam of 1345.
• High altar and pulpit: The richly decorated high altar, side altars and monumental pulpit are among the most important works of art in the interior.
• Historic organ: At the rear of the church stands the large 19th-century Sauer organ, a remarkable instrument enhanced by the church's impressive acoustics.

Practical information

The basilica is highly recommended for visitors who want to combine art, architecture and the religious history of Amsterdam during a walk through the old city centre.

• Ideal location: From Amsterdam Central Station, it is only a few minutes' walk away.
• Perfect short stop: Allow around 20 to 30 minutes to see the main highlights at a relaxed pace.
• Access: The church is open to visitors at set times and is also still used for religious services.
• Tip: Visit the basilica during daylight hours, when sunlight filters through the stained glass in the dome and windows.

Furthermore Basilica of Saint Nicholas is near the following sights: Hop On Hop Off Boat (±125 m), Museum Ons Lieve Heer op Solder (±175 m), Tram line 2 (±225 m), Plas Shipping Company (±225 m) & Venus tempel Sex Museum (±225 m).

For information

Prins Hendrikkade 73, Amsterdam
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