March 2022
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Nieuwe Kerk Haarlem

5
·5 reviews·Haarlem, Netherlands

Haarlem's first Protestant church, a unique square-designed building hosting concerts and art exhibitions.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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March 2022

Nieuwe Kerk Haarlem

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Haarlem's first Protestant church, a unique square-designed building hosting concerts and art exhibitions.

5
(5 reviews)

"Beautiful interior! Very pretty to look at, really another highlight of Haarlem."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Event Listings

Always check for concerts or exhibitions before visiting to make the most of your trip.

Quiet Mornings are Best

For a serene experience, aim for weekday mornings when crowds are minimal.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Unique Protestant Architecture

Unique Protestant Architecture

Interior

Discover the distinct square layout and wooden pulpit, reminiscent of the Temple in Jerusalem.

Reddit
Historic Hess Organ

Historic Hess Organ

Main Hall

Admire the impressive and historic Hess organ, dating back to 1791.

Reddit
Vijfhoek Kunstroute Exhibitions

Vijfhoek Kunstroute Exhibitions

Various locations within the church

Experience local art during the Vijfhoek Kunstroute, with the Nieuwe Kerk often serving as a main exhibition space.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Check event schedules before you go, as the Nieuwe Kerk hosts concerts and exhibitions. Weekday mornings are generally quieter for a peaceful visit, but weekend art routes can be bustling. Instagram+1

Beyond Sunday Services

While a place of worship, the Nieuwe Kerk is also a venue for art and music. Look for special exhibitions or concerts, especially during art routes or festive seasons. Instagram+2

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
During art routes
Why
Vibrant art scene
Crowd
Medium
When
Concert evenings
Why
Musical performances
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Coffee + 💐 bij de nieuwe Coffeebar @hazelhaarlem ☕️ Mijn mini bouquet staat thuis al in het water, wat een leuk plekje is dit weer. 📍Gedempte Oude Gracht 69 #hazelhaarlem #stratenvanhaarlem #coffeewithflowers #haarlemcentrum
@stratenvanhaarlem
926 likes • 26.4K views

Check Event Listings

Always check for concerts or exhibitions before visiting to make the most of your trip. Instagram+2

Quiet Mornings are Best

For a serene experience, aim for weekday mornings when crowds are minimal. Reddit

De Vijfhoekkunstroute is begonnen!!! Ik exposeer bij Jan Monnikendam!🤩🥳 De hoofdexpositie is in de nieuwe Kerk op het Kerksplein te Haarlem.
ilseschildert
33 likes • 293 views
We zijn druk bezig met het opzetten van de overzichtstentoonstelling in de Nieuwe Kerk in Haarlem. Kom je ook naar de opening op vrijdagavond of de kunstroute zaterdag en zondag?
karin_frenay_artworks
36 likes • 401 views

Art Route Highlights

The Vijfhoek Kunstroute is a popular event, often featuring the church. Instagram+1

Winter Church Function

Serves as a 'winter church' due to its warmth compared to the Bavo. Instagram

Located in the beautiful old town district of Vijfhoek in Haarlem, the Nieuwe Kerk stands proudly on Nieuwekerksplein. ⛪️ It was the first Protestant church in the city and boasts unique architecture. Today, it serves as a “winter church” for the Protestant Gemeente van Haarlem-Centrum, as it can get too chilly in the Bavo during the winter months. ❄️ #NieuweKerk #Vijfhoek #Haarlem #ProtestantCh...
haarlemtoday
107 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Event Listings

Always check for concerts or exhibitions before visiting to make the most of your trip. Instagram+2

Quiet Mornings are Best

For a serene experience, aim for weekday mornings when crowds are minimal. Reddit

Art Route Highlights

The Vijfhoek Kunstroute is a popular event, often featuring the church. Instagram+1

Winter Church Function

Serves as a 'winter church' due to its warmth compared to the Bavo. Instagram

What Travellers Say

5
(5 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Nieuwe Kerk Haarlem for its beautiful and unique interior, noting its historical significance as the first Protestant church in the city. The presence of the old Hess organ and its role in art exhibitions are frequently highlighted as positive aspects. Some mention that the restrooms can be insufficient for large groups.

"Beautiful interior!"

Mįkké Aer

"Squeezed into the middle of the residential area, very pretty to look at, really another highlight of Haarlem"

Uwe Reinelt

"Despite its name, the church is an old church dating from 1649. It was the first church built for Protestants in Haarlem. Its square shape with wooden pulpit is unique and evokes the temple in Jerusalem. The interior is understated, and the organ is old (a Hess organ from 1791).

Services are held on Sundays. The church is available for rent. For large groups, the two restrooms are insufficient."

Ronald

What People Like

Beautiful interior
Unique architecture
Historic organ

What People Dislike

Limited restrooms for groups

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Nieuwe Kerk is located on Nieuwekerksplein in Haarlem's old town. It's easily accessible by foot from the city center. Public transport options to Haarlem Central Station are plentiful, followed by a short walk or local bus. Instagram

Parking in Haarlem's city center can be challenging. There are several parking garages nearby, such as the Raaks Parking Garage, but it's often more convenient to use public transport or walk if you're already in the city. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry for general visits outside of specific events is usually free, as it's an active church. However, for concerts, exhibitions, or special tours, separate tickets may be required. Always check the official schedule. Instagram+1

As an active church, its hours can vary. It's best to check for specific visiting times or event schedules, especially if you're not attending a Sunday service. Instagram

Yes, the church is available for rent for various events, including concerts and exhibitions. Inquiries can typically be made through the church's administration. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The interior is unique with its square shape and a prominent wooden pulpit, designed for Protestant services. It's noted for its understated beauty and the historic Hess organ. Reddit

Yes, the church offers beautiful architectural details and often hosts art exhibitions, making it a great spot for photography. Evening light can be particularly stunning. Instagram

The church has restrooms available, though for large groups, the number might be limited. Reddit

It was the first Protestant church built in Haarlem, dating back to 1649. It also serves as a 'winter church' for the Protestant community. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Nieuwe Kerk is located in Haarlem's city center, which is filled with cafes and restaurants. One notable spot mentioned is Hazel Haarlem, a coffee bar with flowers. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the unique square interior, the historic organ, and the exterior architecture, especially during sunset. Instagram

Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but always be respectful of ongoing services or events. Check for any specific photography restrictions. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Nieuwe Kerk is a place of worship and historical significance, its role as a venue for art and music can appeal to families. During the Vijfhoek Kunstroute, children might enjoy exploring the diverse artworks on display. Instagram+1 The unique architecture, like the square layout, can also be a point of interest for younger visitors. Consider checking the schedule for family-friendly concerts or events that might be more engaging for children. Instagram

🎶 Music Lovers

The Nieuwe Kerk Haarlem is a renowned venue for musical performances, particularly classical music. Keep an eye out for the Nieuwe Kerk Concerten Haarlem series, which features talented pianists and ensembles. Instagram+1 Artists like Mikkel have performed Beethoven sonatas here, taking advantage of the church's acoustics. Instagram Attending a concert offers a chance to experience both exceptional music and the historic ambiance of the church. Instagram

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

For art lovers, the Nieuwe Kerk Haarlem is a must-visit, especially during the Vijfhoek Kunstroute. The church serves as a central exhibition space, showcasing a variety of local artists and their works, from paintings to ceramics. Instagram+2 This event transforms the historic building into a dynamic gallery, offering a unique backdrop for appreciating contemporary art. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Significance

The Nieuwe Kerk Haarlem holds a special place in architectural history as the first Protestant church built in the city, established in 1649. Its design is a departure from traditional church layouts, featuring a distinctive square shape and a prominent wooden pulpit. This unique configuration is said to evoke the design of the Temple in Jerusalem, offering a more intimate and direct experience for congregants. The interior is characterized by its understated elegance, allowing the architectural form and the historic organ to take center stage. InstagramReddit

Beyond its historical construction, the church also serves a practical role in the community. It functions as a 'winter church' for the Protestant Gemeente van Haarlem-Centrum, providing a warmer alternative to the larger, and potentially colder, St. Bavo Church during the winter months. This dual purpose highlights its ongoing relevance and integration into the daily life of Haarlem. Instagram

A Hub for Arts and Culture

The Nieuwe Kerk Haarlem is more than just a historical building; it's a vibrant venue for cultural events. It frequently hosts concerts, showcasing a range of musical talents. The Amacord Piano Duo has performed here as part of the Nieuwe Kerk Concerten Haarlem series, highlighting classical performances. Instagram+1 Musicians like Mikkel have also graced its stage with Beethoven sonatas. Instagram

Furthermore, the church is a key location for the Vijfhoek Kunstroute, an annual art exhibition that transforms the space into a gallery for local artists. Visitors can admire various artworks, from paintings to ceramics, often displayed within the church's unique setting. Instagram+2 This integration of art and music makes the Nieuwe Kerk a dynamic cultural destination, offering visitors a chance to experience Haarlem's creative spirit. Instagram

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