Westerkerk - Church

The Westerkerk in Amsterdam is one of the city's most famous churches, built in the Dutch Renaissance style and filled with historical highlights. Located on the edge of the Jordaan, along the Prinsengracht, the Westerkerk is a beautiful example of Amsterdam's rich history and culture.

What to expect at the Westerkerk?

• The Building: The Westerkerk was built between 1620 and 1631 by order of the Amsterdam city council and designed by city architect Hendrick de Keyser. The church is unique as it is the largest Protestant church in the city and is built in the shape of a double cross.
• Rembrandt van Rijn Memorial Plaque: The famous painter Rembrandt van Rijn was buried in the Westerkerk in 1669. Although his exact grave is unknown, a memorial plaque in honour of the artist hangs on the north wall.
• Pulpit, Lectern and Chandelier: In the heart of the church stands the 17th-century pulpit. The historic brass lectern and the impressive chandelier symbolise the significance of Christian faith and the proclamation of the Word through the centuries.
• Burning Bush: This artwork is a place of reflection, inspired by the biblical story of Moses and the burning bush. It connects Christian, Jewish, and Islamic traditions and symbolises the longing for an experience of the divine.
• Mayor's Gate: On the Westermarkt side is the Mayor's Gate, through which the mayors of Amsterdam would enter the church and take their seats in their special pew. It is a reminder of the time when the church had no chairs, but wealthy merchants and magistrates wanted to sit comfortably.
• Candle Chandeliers: The twelve brass candle chandeliers, adorned with the coat of arms of Amsterdam, illuminate the church as they did centuries ago. They are replicas of the original 17th-century chandeliers and create an authentic atmosphere.
• Duyschot Organ and Choir Organ: The Duyschot Organ, built in 1681, is the church’s showpiece, with impressive paintings of biblical scenes. The smaller choir organ, built in 1963, also plays a key role in the musical traditions of the Westerkerk.
• Westertoren: The 85-meter high Westertoren, also known as the ‘Old Wester’, is the tallest church tower in Amsterdam. Although the tower is currently closed for climbing due to renovations, it remains one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
• Graves: In addition to the aforementioned Rembrandt van Rijn, other notable Amsterdammers are buried in the Westerkerk, including famous cartographer Joan Blaeu, painter Govert Flinck, and gin distiller Lucas Bols. Volunteers have been researching the lives of these individuals and the history of the graves for many years.

Practical Information

• Location: The Westerkerk is located at Westermarkt, next to the Prinsengracht, in the heart of Amsterdam.
• Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 11:00 – 15:00.
• Entry: Free admission, voluntary donations are welcome.
• Westertoren: Currently closed for climbing due to renovation work.

Visit the Westerkerk and discover the rich history of this iconic monument in the heart of Amsterdam!

Furthermore Westerkerk is near the following sights: Anne Frank House (±50 m), Tulip Museum (±200 m), Houseboat Museum (±500 m), Erotic Museum (±550 m) & Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) (±600 m).

For information

Prinsengracht 281, Amsterdam
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