Grote Kerk, Alkmaar, Netherlands

The Grote Kerk was built between 1470–1498 by Anthonius Keldermans. It is dedicated to St Lawrence contains the tomb of Floris V, Count of Holland (d. 1296), a brass of 1546, and some paintings (1507). The mechanical clock has 27 bells by Melchior de Haze (1600s), and 8 modern bells. The tower bell was made by Jan Moer in 1525, with a diameter or 130 cm.

The two organs are world-famous. The smaller one, called the 'Koororgel', was built in 1511 by Jan van Covelens, and is built against the North wall of the church. It is the oldest playable organ in the Netherlands. The larger organ at the west end of the church is one of the most famous, significant and beautiful organs in the world. It was built by Jacobus Caltus van Hagerbeer, finished in 1645. The magnificent casework, which unusually stretches from floor to vault and makes the organ part of the architecture of the church, was designed by Jacob van Campen, a leading architect of the time. The enormous canvas shutters were painted by Caesar van Everdingen.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

Nigel Diamond (2 years ago)
Huge indoor space, beautiful woodwork especially in the ceiling. A climb up into the galleries is possible for the nimble. Helpful guides tell the story of the building.

Ruxandra van der Plas-Voda Ph. D. (3 years ago)
Beautiful church hosting the beautiful works of young artists like Thomas Trum.

Cliff Jonesp (4 years ago)
The church is beautiful inside and out Amazing, friendly and informative people Wonderful historical experience

Anastasia Tretjakova (4 years ago)
Enormous church. Very beautiful. Gorgeous wooden ceilings. Entrance is free. At this moment some work is being done inside, it doesn't take away from the experience (sept2020)

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Historic Site of the week

Kakesbeck Castle

Kakesbeck is one of the largest medieval fortifications in Münsterland and the oldest castle in Lüdinghausen. The imposingly grown complex originated in 1120 as a motte, a small hilltop tower castle. After numerous changes of ownership, the castle was extended onto two islands, but it was not until the 14th century that it underwent significant alterations and extensions under the von Oer family. The estate experienced its heyday in the middle of the 18th century, when it covered an area of almost one square kilometre and consisted of five further outer castles in addition to the core castle, which were secured by ramparts and moats.

The well-maintained condition of the castle today is thanks to the late Wilfried Grewing, the former lord of the castle. The foundation named after him has been particularly committed to preserving the property since 2020.

Grote Kerk

Address

Details

More Information

Rating

Interesting Sites Nearby

User Reviews

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Exploring the History of Northern Poland

Discovering Slovenia's Historic Wonders

Historical Gems of Costa Verde

Historic Site of the week

Kakesbeck Castle