Nieuwe Kerk Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s ‘New Church’ situated on Dam Square
Although not exactly new – the Nieuwe Kerk was originally built in the 14th century – it is new compared to Oude Kerk (Old Church) also in Amsterdam. As Amsterdam grew, it was decided a second church was needed, so the new church was built and consecrated in 1409. Unfortunately the church has a history with fire when it was damaged in both 1421 and 1452. It ws then almost entirely lost to fire in 1645. After this it was rebuilt in a Gothic style and has had a few renovations since.
Niuewe Kerk is located within Dam Square right next to the Royal Palace. This is why Dam Square is seen as one of the major hubs of Amsterdam, as it has so many attractions and points of interest within it.
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Nieuwe Kerk is a 15th century church used as an exhibition space and for Royal occasions. It has over 250,000 visitors annually to its exhibitions.
Where is Nieuwe Kerk in Amsterdam
Nieuwe Kerk is located in Dam Square. You can reach Dam Square by foot from Central Station in around 10 minutes. You can also use trams to get there, look for the tram line numbers 2, 4, 11, 12, 13, 14, 17 and 24.
The metro stops about a 5 minute walk away at Rokin (Metro 52).
Nieuwe Kerk Opening Times
Open daily: 10am until 6pm.
Closed on 3 & 4 May. There may be other closures as new exhibitions are set up in advance of opening or any Royal events are planned.
What is Nieuwe Kerk used for?
Situated in Dam Square by the Royal Palace it is no suprise to find the church is used for many Royal events. These include weddings and the investiture of Willem-Alexander, King of the Netherlands.
Nieuwe Kerk is no longer used for church services. Originally it was a Dutch Reformed Church, but now belongs to Protestant Church in the Netherlands and is really run as an exhibition/cultural space. Nieuwe Kerk looks to offer major exhibitions about art, photography, individuals and culture.
Exhibitions of note at Nieuwe Kerk include:
The World Press Photo Exhibition which in 2022 runs from 15 April to 14 August. This is a large exhibition of the best in press photojournalism and when set within the beautiful church interior is a very evocative experience.
Remembrance Day on 4 May commemorates the victims of World War II with a service held in the church and ceremony on Dam Square.
Throughout the year there are other scheduled exhibitions featuring works of art and people sure to inspire you.
Tickets for Nieuwe Kerk
Most exhibitions and general entry is ticket only. These Nieuwe Kerk tickets need to be booked in advance and this can be done through the official Nieuwe Kerk website.
If you have an I Amsterdam City Card then entry is free. The Amsterdam City Card is the city’s tourist pass that includes a host of attractions across Amsterdam, as well as free public transport on the GVB network. Learn more about the I Amsterdam City Card or use our link below to buy your pass now.
