The Oude Kerk (old church) is the oldest building church in Amsterdam.
History of Oude Kerk
Oude Kerk is located in the Red light district in front of Amsterdam Central Station.
This area was a cemetery in the early 13th century. A wooden chapel was built for the safety of sailors in what was then a fishing village in Amsterdam.
In the 14th century, it was dedicated to Nicholas, patron saint of fishermen, and upgraded from a chapel to a church. The building was also renovated from wooden to stone-built.
In the 15th century, a new church, the Nieuwe Kerk (New church), was built on Dam Square as the population of Amsterdam citizens increased.
Even after the new church was built, Oude Kerk has always been a popular gathering place and has been called Amsterdam’s living room.
In the 17th century, the artist Rembrandt married at Oude Kerk and his wife Saskia is buried there.
Many Amsterdam citizens are buried with her in this church. Oude Kerk has 2500 graves and 12000 people are buried there.
Oude Kerk Museum
Oude Kerk is a civic gathering place, a church and a museum.
Oude Kerk often hosts concerts and exhibitions, and the contrast between old buildings and modern art installations is a very interesting and popular exhibitions.