De Oude en Nieuwe Kerk van Delft

De Oude en Nieuwe Kerk van Delft: where stories come together 

The Old and Nieuwe Kerk are iconic for the city of Delft: together they tell stories about the city's rich history. If you want to discover Delft, a visit to both churches with their many monuments is definitely part of it!

Oude Kerk

The Oude Kerk has defined the face of Delft since the 13th century. Its tower, known as the 'Leaning John', stands as much as two metres out of plumb! Inside, you will find the graves of famous Delfters such as world-famous painter Johannes Vermeer, sailors Piet Hein and Maarten Tromp, scientist Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, benefactor Clara van Spaerwoude and Elisabeth Morgan, the daughter of Philips van Marnix (who wrote the Dutch national anthem). And when the sun shines, experience how the light falls almost magically through the stained-glass windows in this beautiful Gothic church.

The tomb of Piet Hein is currently undergoing a thorough restoration. This has prompted an exhibition on his life and career, namely Piet Hein: the death of a naval hero. Take a look behind the building wall, dream away at life on a 17th-century ship and learn about the influence of the silver fleet on the emergence of the organised Dutch trade in enslaved people. On the other side of the church, temporary changing exhibitions are always on display. Until 28 September 2024, it is The near-your-bed show: Daisy Ranoe and IJM on modern slavery.

Nieuwe Kerk

The Nieuwe Kerk, located on Delft's markt, is also called the Orange Church because it is inextricably linked to the Royal Family. Since William of Orange, members of the royal family have been interred here in the royal crypt. For centuries, the William of Orange's mausoleum has been an trekpleister. The extensive permanent exhibition tells about the special connection between the church and the Oranges.

Climb the tower of the Nieuwe Kerk. At 108.75 metres, it is the second highest church tower in the Netherlands and guarantees breathtaking views of Delft and its surroundings. Don't forget to bring your camera!

There is so much more to discover... Wander around these monumental houses of worship, admire the beautiful stained-glass windows, discover the graves and stories of famous and less famous people of Delft, learn about the iconoclasm and admire the impressive organs. These are the places to experience Delft's history!

Book tickets online via onkd.nl.

Escaperoute 'The Secret of the Iconoclasm'

Want to get to know de Oude en Nieuwe Kerk van Delft in a special way? Then go on an adventure and unravel the Secret of the Iconoclasm. In about 75 - 90 minutes, you will crack codes, follow cryptic clues and solve a series of puzzles. Your goal? Finding a secret treasure hidden during the iconoclasm, a tumultuous period when Protestants destroyed works of art in their fight against "idolatry".

Go to onkd.nl/escaperoute and book a time slot for a unique adventure for young and old!