The Old Church: A Glimpse into Delft's Spiritual Heritage
Discover the Old Church in Delft, a stunning Gothic architectural marvel and cultural landmark with rich history and artistic treasures.
Nestled in the heart of Delft, the Old Church, or Oude Kerk, stands as a testament to the city's rich spiritual heritage and architectural beauty. Dating back to the 13th century, this Protestant church is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture, characterized by its soaring arches and intricate stained glass windows that invite visitors to bask in the ethereal light that filters through. The most striking feature of the Old Church is its iconic leaning tower, which has become a symbol of Delft and offers a unique backdrop for countless photographs. As you step inside, you will be greeted by a peaceful ambiance that invites reflection and admiration. The church is home to a remarkable collection of art, including impressive tombs of notable figures such as the painter Johannes Vermeer, who is often associated with the city. Visitors can wander through the tranquil sanctuary, absorbing the history that resonates within its walls. The Old Church also hosts various cultural events and concerts, providing an opportunity to experience the vibrant community spirit of Delft. A visit to this cultural landmark is not just a journey through history, but also a chance to connect with the local traditions that continue to thrive in this charming Dutch city. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, the Old Church promises an enriching experience that will leave you captivated by Delft's enduring legacy.
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to enjoy a quieter experience and more opportunities to appreciate the church's features.
- Check the church's event schedule; attending a concert can enhance your visit with live music in a beautiful setting.
- Don't forget to explore the surrounding area; the charming streets of Delft offer delightful cafes and shops.
- Bring your camera to capture the leaning tower and the beautiful interiors, especially the stained glass windows.
- Consider purchasing a small guidebook from the church shop for deeper insights into its history and artwork.
A brief summary to Old Church
- HH Geestkerkhof 25, Delft, 2611 HP, NL
- +31152123015
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Train
From The Hague Central Station (Den Haag Centraal), take a train heading towards Delft. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes. Once you arrive at Delft Station, exit the station and head towards the main road, which is the Oostsingel. Turn right onto the Oostsingel and continue straight until you reach the first major intersection with the Westvest street. Cross the street and continue straight onto the Geestkerkhof. The Old Church (Oude Kerk) will be on your left at HH Geestkerkhof 25.
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Tram
From The Hague Central Station, take tram line 1 towards 'Delft'. The tram ride will take approximately 30 minutes. Get off at the 'Delft, Markt' stop. From there, walk towards the Markt square, then take the road on the left side of the square, following the signs to the Old Church (Oude Kerk). Continue walking straight until you reach HH Geestkerkhof 25, where the church is located.
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Bus
From The Hague, take bus line 128 towards 'Delft, Tanthof'. The bus ride will take about 30 minutes. Get off at 'Delft, Tanthof', then transfer to bus line 69 towards 'Delft, Station'. After about 10 minutes, get off at 'Delft, Station'. From the station, walk straight onto the Oostsingel, turn right, and head towards the intersection with Westvest. Cross and continue along the Geestkerkhof until you reach the Old Church at HH Geestkerkhof 25.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, rent a bike in The Hague and head towards Delft. The cycle route is well-marked, and it takes about 30-40 minutes to reach Delft. From The Hague, follow the cycle path along the N470 road towards Delft. Once you arrive in Delft, follow the signs to the city center. You can lock your bike near the Markt square and then walk to the Old Church located at HH Geestkerkhof 25.
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Walking
If you're feeling adventurous and want a longer stroll, you can walk from The Hague to Delft. The distance is approximately 10 kilometers, and it will take around 1.5 to 2 hours. Start at The Hague Central Station, head towards the N470, and follow the pedestrian paths towards Delft. Once you reach the city center, navigate to the Markt square, then walk towards the Geestkerkhof, where the Old Church is located at HH Geestkerkhof 25.
