Westerkerk

Westerkerk Church on the Prinsengracht canal

Westerkerk is one of Amsterdam’s major landmarks. Its tower stands 85 metres tall and can be seen from miles around.

Westerkerk (Western Church) is located along the Prinsengracht canal on the outer edge of the Jordaan district. The Jordaan is a very popular and pretty part of Amsterdam with other major attractions like Anne Frank House which makes the area a magnet for visitors and locals.

Westerkerk is a stunning and important church in the Netherlands and well worth visiting. You can also climb its tower for some of the best views in Amsterdam.

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Where is Westerkerk

Westerkerk is located along the beautiful Prinsengracht canal, one of the iconic canals of the canal belt.

It is one of the rare landmarks where you can actually look to the skyline and see its tower and find your bearings.

The simplest and nicest way to get there from Central Station, would be a gentle walk along the Prinsengracht canal. This would take around 20 minutes. Many of the canal boat tours will float past the Westerkerk which is a lovely way to see it and get some unique pictures.

Another way would be to take Tram 2 from Central Station to Westermarkt. This takes 7 minutes. Trams in Amsterdam are iconic and Tram 2 is also known as one of the most beautiful tram routes in the world, so is a lovely way to see the sights of Amsterdam.

Westerkerk, Prinsengracht 279, 1061 GW Amsterdam.

Westerkerk History

The history of the Westerkerk (Western Church) in Amsterdam is intertwined with the city’s development and cultural heritage.

Construction

The Westerkerk was built during the Dutch Golden Age, a period of significant economic, cultural and artistic growth in the Netherlands. Construction began in 1620 under the supervision of the renowned architect Hendrick de Keyser. The church was constructed in the Dutch Renaissance style, characterized by its symmetrical façade, ornate gables, and classical elements.

Completion and Consecration

After more than a decade of construction, the Westerkerk was completed in 1631. It was consecrated on Whit Sunday (Pentecost) of that year, marking the beginning of its role as a place of worship for the Protestant community in Amsterdam.

Protestantism in Amsterdam

The Westerkerk played a significant role in the Protestant Reformation in the Netherlands. Amsterdam was a center of religious tolerance and diversity during this period, attracting Protestant refugees from across Europe. The Westerkerk became one of the leading Protestant churches in the city, serving as a symbol of religious freedom and tolerance.

Architectural Features

The Westerkerk is known for its distinctive tower, which stands at approximately 85 meters (279 feet) tall. The tower is topped with a crown and spire, making it a prominent landmark on the Amsterdam skyline. Although the tower seems to be part of the church, it is actually owned by the Amsterdam Municipality, not the church itself. The tower is currently wrapped in scaffolding whilst it undergoes restoration and repair. The church’s interior features impressive wooden vaults, intricate woodwork, and stained glass windows, reflecting the wealth and artistic sophistication of the Dutch Golden Age.

Cultural Significance

Over the centuries, the Westerkerk has not only been a place of worship but also a cultural and historical landmark. It is closely associated with several prominent figures in Dutch history, including the painter Rembrandt van Rijn, who lived and worked nearby. You can visit Rembrandt House Museum to see where the painter lived and worked for some of his life. Rembrandt is buried in the church.

The Westerkerk and Westertoren (tower) also holds significance in the story of Anne Frank. She mentions being able to see the clock face of the tower and hear the soothing sounds of the bells in her diary while in hiding, during World War II. There is a statue of Anne Frank outside the church.

Restoration and Preservation

Like many historic buildings, the Westerkerk has undergone periods of restoration and renovation to preserve its architectural integrity. The tower is currently undergoing renovation.

Westerkerk is on the edge of jordaan District and is close to Anne Frank House and other popular attractions.

Westerkerk Tower Tickets

You can climb the church tower (Westertoren) from April until September. Other churches in Amsterdam like Oude Kerk and Zuiderkerk also allow visitors to climb their respective towers during this time. These churches are open to visitors every day except Sundays when there are services.

The Westertoren is being renovated from 2023-2024, so unfortunately if you are visiting during this period you will be unable to climb the tower here. When it is open, tickets usually cost €7 and are walk-up tickets. You may have to wait for your slot as the climb is accompanied.

Westerkerk Bells

The Westertoren’s Carillon was original in 1658. Since then, it has had various restorations and been expanded too.

If you are not sure what a carillon is, it is a percussion instrument played via a keyboard. The keyboard will move the hammers onto the bells.

The carillon plays every fifteen minutes automatically and on Tuesday’s from 12-1pm it is played live. The Westerkerk carillon can play most tunes, so you can hear unexpected music while in the area.

Things to do near Westerkerk

Near the Westerkerk in Amsterdam, there are several attractions and activities that you can enjoy.

Anne Frank House

Located just a short walk from the Westerkerk, Anne Frank House is one of Amsterdam’s most famous museums. Visitors can tour the secret annex where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II, gaining insight into their lives and the Holocaust.

Jordaan District

The Westerkerk is situated in the charming Jordaan district, known for its picturesque streets, boutique shops, galleries and independent cafes. Take a leisurely stroll through the neighbourhood to explore its unique atmosphere and Dutch architecture.

Canal Cruises

It is a rare visitor to Amsterdam who does not take a canal boat cruise. It is one of the nicest and prettiest ways to see the city. Most tours will include the Prinsengracht canal along which you will find Anne Frank House and the western church.

Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes)

Just south of the church are the Nine Streets, a vibrant shopping area (although was raining cats and dogs when we went there), known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, vintage stores, art galleries and cafes. It’s a great place to browse for unique souvenirs and gifts.

Dam Square

Located a bit further east from the Westerkerk, Dam Square is the historical heart of Amsterdam. Here, you can visit notable landmarks such as the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church).

Museum Quarter

If you’re interested in art and culture, you can head southwest to Amsterdam’s Museum Quarter, home to world-class museums like the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Stedelijk Museum.

Westerkerk ADE

Westerkerk has featured in the hugely popular Amsterdam Dance Event – ADE. As the ADE celebrates all kinds of electronic music, the Westerkerk featured at the more mellow end of electronic music and has had installations inside including an interactive rainforest.