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Church · Delft, Holanda Meridional
Nieuwe Kerk
Gothic church on the Markt in Delft with the monumental tomb of Guilherme de Orange and the crypt of the Dutch royal family. The tower, at 108.75 meters, is the second-tallest in the Netherlands and can be climbed.
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 Nieuwe Kerk
The Nieuwe Kerk, the New Church, sits on one side of the Markt. It was completed in 1496, and the tower, at 108.75 meters, is second in height only to the Domtoren de Utrecht among churches in the Netherlands.
It is the burial place of the Casa de Orange. Guilherme de Orange, leader of the revolt against Spain, was assassinated in Delft in 1584 and lies in a large marble tomb in the choir of the church. Beneath it is the royal family's crypt, where King Guilherme I, Queen Guilhermina and Prince Claus, among others, are interred. The crypt is not open to visitors.
The climb to the tower is by a narrow stone staircase and leads to views over Delft's roofs and, on clear days, as far as Haia and Roterdã. The carillon rings several times a day, and the city's carillonneur gives live concerts at set times.
The church is undergoing renovation in phases. Visits continue, but some parts may be closed or behind scaffolding.
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 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, including the climb to the tower.
Best time
On clear days, for the view from the top of the tower. On Sundays the church holds services and does not open for tourist visits: check before you go. The climb may be closed in strong winds.
How to get there
It is located on the Markt, about a 10-minute walk from Delft station.
Tip
The same ticket usually covers the Oude Kerk, a ten-minute walk away: keep it. The tower staircase is narrow and tiring; those who are afraid of heights or have knee problems should think twice before climbing.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Nieuwe Kerk
Who is buried in the Nieuwe Kerk in Delft?
William of Orange, assassinated in Delft in 1584, and members of the Dutch royal family, such as King William I, Queen Wilhelmina and Prince Claus.
Can you go up the tower?
Yes. The tower is 108.75 metres tall, the second tallest among churches in the Netherlands, and the ascent is by stairs. Check whether it's open that day, as it may close in bad weather.
Does the Nieuwe Kerk open on Sundays?
On Sundays there are services and the church is not open for tourist visits. Check before you go.
Can you see the royal crypt?
No. The royal family's crypt is beneath the tomb of Guilherme de Orange and is not open to visitors.