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Church · Damme, Flandres Ocidental
Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Hemelvaartkerk
13th-century church with a massive brick tower that can be climbed from April to September. The original nave was partially demolished and ruins remain alongside.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Hemelvaartkerk
The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption began to be built around 1210, at the height of Damme as a port. The size of the building shows the wealth the village had while the Zwin still brought ships.
With Damme's decline, the church became too large. In the 18th century part of the nave and transept was taken down, and the remains of arches and walls now form a ruin beside the building. The late Gothic choir remains intact and in use.
The brick tower can be climbed from April to September. There are 206 steps to the top, from where you can see the village roofs, the star-shaped layout of the old fortifications, the canals and the flat fields all the way to Bruges.
Around the church is the churchyard with trees, a few steps from the town hall square and the streets of low houses.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half an hour for the church and the ruins; another half hour with the climb up the tower.
Best time
From April to September, when the tower is open for climbing, on clear-sky days to see far.
How to get there
It is in the center of Damme, a few minutes' walk from the town hall square.
Tip
From the tower you can make out the star-shaped layout of the village's old walls, which is hardly noticeable at ground level.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Hemelvaartkerk
Can you climb the church tower in Damme?
Yes, from April to September. There are 206 steps to the top; check opening days before you go.
Why does the church have a ruined section?
After Damme lost its port, the church became too large for the village, and part of the nave was demolished in the 18th century.