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Grote Kerk Breda: A Gothic Masterpiece with Royal Connections

Discover Breda's iconic Grote Kerk: a majestic Gothic church with royal connections, offering a blend of history, art, and cultural experiences in the heart of the city.

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The Grote Kerk, or Church of Our Lady, is Breda's most iconic landmark, a stunning example of Brabantine Gothic architecture. Construction began in 1410, resulting in the impressive structure that stands today, boasting a 97-meter-tall tower. Beyond its architectural grandeur, the Grote Kerk holds significant historical importance as the final resting place for nine members of the Nassau family and the first Prince of Orange. Today, the church serves as a vibrant cultural center, hosting concerts, exhibitions, and interactive tours. Visitors can explore the church for free, admiring the intricate details, including the Prinsenkapel with its Renaissance ceiling, and even climb the tower for panoramic views of Breda. The Grote Kerk offers a captivating blend of history, art, and culture in the heart of Breda.

A brief summary to Large Church Breda - Our Dear Mother Church

  • Monday 10 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-2 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-5 pm

Local tips

  • Climb the Grote Kerk's tower on Saturdays for panoramic views of Breda; check Gilde de Baronie's website for additional climbing dates and guided tours.
  • Explore the Prinsenkapel to see the Renaissance ceiling painting by Tommaso Vincidor, a student of Raphael, and the tombs of the Nassau family.
  • Take advantage of the free interactive tours available on your smartphone to discover the stories and highlights of the Grote Kerk at your own pace.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Breda Central Station, walk north towards the city center. Follow Stationsplein and turn left onto Willemstraat. Continue straight onto the Grote Markt, where the Grote Kerk is located on Kerkplein. The walk is approximately 10 minutes, and the church tower is visible from a distance, aiding orientation.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines stop near the Grote Markt. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route from your location. From the bus stop at the Grote Markt, the Grote Kerk is a short walk across Kerkplein. A single bus fare within Breda costs approximately €2-€3.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Breda. A taxi ride from Breda Central Station to the Grote Kerk typically costs between €10 and €15, depending on traffic and the specific service used. The journey takes around 5-10 minutes.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to the city center of Breda. Several parking garages are located within walking distance of the Grote Kerk, including Parkeergarage Centrum Breda and Parkeergarage Chasséparking. Parking fees typically range from €2.70 to €4 per hour. Consider using Mobypark for pre-booked and discounted parking options.

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Discover more about Large Church Breda - Our Dear Mother Church

The Grote Kerk, also known as the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk (Church of Our Lady), stands as the most important monument and a defining landmark of Breda. Rising majestically from the Kerkplein, this impressive structure exemplifies Brabantine Gothic architecture, drawing visitors with its soaring height and intricate details. Its history is deeply intertwined with the city and the Dutch royal family, making it a must-see destination for anyone exploring Breda. Construction of the Grote Kerk began in 1410, commissioned by Engelbrecht I of Nassau to honor the birth of his son, Jan IV of Nassau. The church was intended to house a crypt for the Nassau family, a tradition for wealthy and prominent families of the time. Over the next century, the church evolved, with significant contributions from Count Hendrik III of Nassau, who introduced Renaissance elements during his travels with Emperor Charles V. The church was completed in 1547. The Grote Kerk's architecture is a testament to the flamboyant style of Brabantine Gothic. Flowing lines, lush ornamentation, and the use of sandstone distinguish it. The 97-meter-tall tower, completed in 1509, dominates the Breda skyline and offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. The interior is equally impressive, featuring towering stone columns, elaborate vaulted ceilings, and intricately carved choir stalls and capitals that depict religious scenes and allegories. Throughout its history, the Grote Kerk has played a significant role in Breda's religious and cultural life. Originally a Catholic church, it became Protestant in 1637 after the Reformation. The church served as the final resting place for nine members of the Nassau family and the first Prince of Orange, René van Châlon. Their impressive tombs remain a major attraction within the church. The Prinsenkapel (Prince's Chapel) is a highlight, housing the mausoleum of the early ancestors of the Dutch royal family. The chapel features a remarkable Renaissance ceiling painting by Tommaso Vincidor, a student of Raphael, showcasing a unique blend of Italian and Dutch artistic influences. The chapel also contains the tomb of Engelbrecht II of Nassau. Today, the Grote Kerk functions as a vibrant cultural center, hosting a variety of events, including concerts, exhibitions, and interactive tours. Its excellent acoustics make it a popular venue for choral music, and its open spaces provide a unique setting for contemporary art installations. The church also offers interactive tours that allow visitors to discover the stories and highlights of the Grote Kerk using their smartphones. The Grote Kerk is committed to ensuring its relevance for future generations through innovative programs that connect the church's history and collection with contemporary events and knowledge. It is part of the 'Grootste Museum van Nederland' (Largest Museum of the Netherlands), an initiative that highlights valuable art treasures in churches throughout the country. Visitors can explore the church freely, take an audio tour, or participate in a guided tour to learn about its rich history and architectural features. The Grote Kerk is accessible to visitors with physical disabilities. The church is located in the heart of Breda, surrounded by other attractions, shops, and restaurants. It is easily accessible by public transport, with a short walk from the Breda Central Station. Several parking garages are also located within walking distance of the church. The Grote Kerk is more than just a historical monument; it is a living treasure trove of stories waiting to be uncovered. Its blend of architectural grandeur, historical significance, and cultural vibrancy makes it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Breda. Whether you are interested in history, art, architecture, or simply experiencing the atmosphere of a vibrant city, the Grote Kerk offers a captivating and enriching experience. Visiting the Grote Kerk is free, but there may be a charge for special events or exhibitions. The church is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Sunday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. However, it is advisable to check the church's website for the most up-to-date opening hours and event schedules.

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