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Church · Haarlem, Holanda Setentrional
Grote of Sint-Bavokerk
Gothic church built between 1370 and 1520 on the Grote Markt, with a 78-metre wooden tower and the Müller organ from 1738, played by Händel and Mozart.
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 Grote of Sint-Bavokerk
The Grote of Sint-Bavokerk (kerk = church) was built between 1370 and 1520 in Brabantine Gothic style for Catholic worship. In 1559 it became the cathedral of the newly created diocese of Haarlem, but in 1578, with the Reformation, it passed to the Protestants, who use it to this day. Above the crossing of the nave stands a wooden tower clad in lead more than 78 metres high.
The highlight of the interior is the Müller organ, built by Christian Müller between 1735 and 1738 on commission from the city. At the time it was the largest organ in the world. The gilded wooden case has carvings and a marble relief. Händel played it in 1740 and 1750, and Mozart, at ten years old, in 1766.
The church is large and bright, with a floor covered in tombstones. Among those buried there is the painter Frans Hals. Entrance for visits is charged at the church ticket office.
From late May to early October the city council usually organises weekly organ concerts; there are also lunchtime concerts and an international organ festival. Check the programme.
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
From 30 minutes to 1 hour; longer if it coincides with an organ concert.
Best time
On weekdays, in the morning. The tourist visit usually runs from Monday to Saturday and is not open on Sundays, when there is a service; check before you go. To hear the organ, look up the dates of the concerts from late May to early October.
How to get there
It is on the Grote Markt itself, about a ten-minute walk from Haarlem station. The visitor entrance is on the north side of the church.
Tip
Look for Frans Hals's tombstone in the choir floor and then visit the museum that bears his name, a few minutes' walk away. If you are interested in music, schedule the visit on a day when there's a concert.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Grote of Sint-Bavokerk
Does the church open on Sundays?
Tourist visits are usually not available on Sundays, which are service days. Confirm opening times before you go.
Did Mozart really play the organ?
Yes. Mozart played the Müller organ in 1766 at the age of ten. Händel also played it, in 1740 and 1750.
Are there organ concerts?
Yes. From late May to early October there are usually weekly concerts, plus others throughout the year. Check the programme.
Where is Frans Hals buried?
The painter is buried inside the church, in the choir.