Grote Kerk, Haarlem
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Grote Kerk, Haarlem
The Grote Kerk or St.-Bavokerk is a Reformed Protestant church and former Catholic cathedral located on the central market square (Grote Markt) in the Dutch city of Haarlem. Another Haarlem church called the Cathedral of Saint Bavo now serves as the main cathedral for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Haarlem-Amsterdam.
This church is an important landmark for the city of Haarlem and has dominated the city skyline for centuries. It is built in the Gothic style of architecture, and it became the main church of Haarlem after renovations in the 15th century made it significantly larger than the Janskerk (Haarlem). First mention of a church on this spot was made in 1307, but the wooden structure burned in the 14th century. The church was rebuilt and promoted to chapter church in 1479 and only became a cathedral in 1559. The main architects were Godevaert de Bosscher and Steven van Afflighem (nave), and Evert van Antwerpen (transept). The term "Catholic" was never really associated with this church, since it was only consecrated as a cathedral in 1559, which was already in the middle of the period known as the Protestant Reformation. The church was confiscated only 19 years later during the Haarlemse noon in 1578, when it was converted to Protestantism. It was dedicated to Saint Bavo at some time before 1500, though there exists a curious painting in the collection of the Catholic Cathedral of St. Bavo illustrating the miracle of St. Bavo saving Haarlem from the Kennemers in a scene from the 13th century. This painting was painted a century after the Catholics were banned from their church, and may have been a commemorative painting referring to the defense of the Church and the Catholic faith as well as the defense of the city.
Accommodations near Grote Kerk, Haarlem
City Attic Haarlem
see price.
Nearby Tours & Activities
Opening times
| Monday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Guests' reviews
Spectacular building with lots of hidden features. You always find something new.
Not to miss this one. Awesome. Lucky to listen the organ live
Very interesting features in this Cathedral including the ornate wood paneled ceiling, a must see if you are visiting Haarlem. The cathedral is protestant as well which is unusual in mainland Europe. It also contains a famous organ, which in the Netherlands, can mean many things...
A cathedral set in the heart of town. €2.50 for entrance fee, simple brochure to explain history. A pleasant visit.
Beautiful and huge old building. Nearby to many restauranta and caffes
Is it the centrepiece of Haarlem? Yes! And for good reason. Mozart and Bach both played at this church and the architecture is some of the absolute best in Europe. Try to explore the inside. Make sure you check for the appropriate times. An incredible piece of history.
Most beautiful church in Haarlem. Have a look inside!
Beautiful place, just wish we had time to see it all. Do go during an organ recital; you will NOT regret it.
One of the most beautiful churches i have ever seen in my life! Highly recommended!
Breathtakingly lovely Church with a free organ concert Thursday afternoons--their website also lists Tuesday evenings. The concert is about an hour long and is performed by a rotating list of world-class organists. The instrument dates from the 1730's and the church proudly notes that both Handel and Mozart performed on it.
I was listening to organ competition final round here. Acoustic is great, interiors are spectacular. Spend a lot of time reading on the history of Haarlem after my visit.
