5x admire churches in Delft
They tower over everything and are an important landmark in the city: the churches of Delft! The monumental figureheads keep a rich history between their walls. We list 5 Delft churches for you.
1. The Nieuwe Kerk
Markt 80
The Nieuwe Kerk in Delft is best known for its royal crypt. In this church, almost all members of the House of Orange are buried. The most famous grave is that of our Father of the Netherlands: William of Orange. But the grave of legal scholar and writer Hugo de Groot can also be found here.
The church has endured quite a lot over the years, which explains its black top, among other things. The Nieuwe Kerk was built at the end of the 14th century. After about 100 years, a heavy lightning strike struck the tower. It was rebuilt, but given a different shape. Until the end of the 19th century, the tower remained untouched, until lightning struck again. After this, the tower was rebuilt one more time with Bentheimer sandstone. This type of stone proved not to be resistant to acid rain, so the tower became increasingly black. Fortunately, the church still shines at the Markt and will stay there voorlopig!
Nice to know: in good weather, you can climb the tower and enjoy a magnificent view of the city!
Book your ticket for the Nieuwe Kerk here
2. The Oude Kerk
HH Geestkerkhof 25
The nickname of the Oude Kerk is 'Leaning John' and it didn't get that name for nothing! The Oude Oude Kerk is actually quite leaning and even has a kink in its tower. At the time, the people of Delft were not aware of the subsoil they were building the tower on, namely a filled-in canal. This was discovered during construction, after which they continued building 'straight' on the already sloping part. Hence the kink we still see in the church tower today. Fortunately, the church has since been stabilised.
The Oude Kerk also has a crypt where many important Dutch figures are buried, including painter Johannes Vermeer and scientist Antonie van Leeuwenhoek.
Book your ticket for the Oude Kerk here
3. Maria van Jessekerk
Burgwal 20
The Oude Kerk and Nieuwe Kerk are not the only churches in Delft. On the Burgwal, you'll find the Maria van Jessekerk. A striking building, as this church has not one but two towers - which is unusual for a church. What's more, the towers are also different from each other! Discover the story behind the towers and admire the beautiful interior.
4. Waalse church
Oude Delft 177
The Waalse Kerk, part of the Museum Prinsenhof Delft, has not been used for services for some time. This place used to serve as the court chapel for William of Orange. What not many people know is that some of his grandchildren are buried here, instead of with their families in the Nieuwe Kerk.
Attention! Museum Prinsenhof Delft will be temporarily closed from 6 January 2025 due to renovation. For more information, visit the Museum Prinsenhof Delft website.
5. Schuilkerk Bagijnhof
Delft's best-kept secret is a hidden church in the historic centre. A magnificent baroque gem from 1743; a national monument that you won't see from the street side. Will you come and take a look?
Striking or not: nevertheless, churches are a vibrant meeting place. And not only during the celebrations of the vital Old Catholic community of faith. Come see, burn a candle, catch the silence and peer around. The hideaway church can only be visited on Saturdays during the summer months.
Fun for you too!
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To the museum in Delft
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Discover the surroundings of Delft by bike
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Discover Delft's art galleries
