Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
GROTE KERK
TOUR
Haarlem's impressive Grote Kerk (Great Church), one of the best-
known landmarks in the Netherlands, is visible from miles around,
rising above the f lat plain that surrounds it. From the Market
Square, you see the church at a three-quarters angle, emphasizing
both its length (240 feet) and its height (260 feet).
orientation
Cost:
€2.
Hours:
Mon-Sat 10:00-16:00, closed Sun to tourists, Sun service
at 10:00 (May-Sept). There's a daily 15-minute prayer service
at 12:45 and, in July-Aug, an evensong service on Sun at 19:00.
Occasionally, the church is closed for a wedding or a funeral;
if you see a closed sign when it's supposed to be open, return
in a couple of hours.
Getting There:
The church is on the main square, a 10-minute
walk south of the train station.
Information:
While rich in heritage, the church doesn't do much
to share its history with non-Dutch-speaking visitors. It offers
no tours and very little information in English. Tel. 023/553-
2040, www.bavo.nl.
WC:
A handy WC is inside near the café.
Music:
Consider attending even just part of a concert to hear
Holland's greatest pipe organ. Free concerts are generally
offered throughout the summer (Tue at 20:15 mid-May-mid-
Oct, additional concerts Thu at 15:00 late June-Aug; confirm
schedule at TI or at website listed above). If you're coming
for a concert, bring a sweater—the thick stone walls keep the
church cool, even during summer.
Length of This Tour:
Allow one hour.
