Amsterdam · Historic church
Nieuwe Kerk: Amsterdam's Church of Kings and Exhibitions
The 15th-century "New Church" on Dam Square where Dutch monarchs are inaugurated — now one of the city's most important exhibition venues. Here's its story, what to see inside and how to plan your visit.
By the AllTrips Editorial Team ·
Nieuwe Kerk at a glance
Area: Dam Square, next to the Royal Palace. Allow: 1–1.5 hours. Entry: paid — it operates as an exhibition venue, not a working church. Best time: weekday mornings. Nearby: the Royal Palace, Dam Square and the canal belt.
Why it is famous
The Nieuwe Kerk was built from 1380 onwards when the Oude Kerk could no longer hold Amsterdam's booming population. Despite its name — the "New Church" — it is more than 600 years old and one of the finest late-Gothic buildings in the Netherlands.
Its national role came later. Since 1814 Dutch monarchs have been inaugurated here rather than crowned — the Netherlands has no coronation — and the church hosted the inaugurations of Wilhelmina, Juliana, Beatrix and, in 2013, King Willem-Alexander. Royal weddings also take place here, including Willem-Alexander and Máxima's in 2002. Between ceremonies, the Nieuwe Kerk is one of Amsterdam's leading exhibition spaces, staging major shows on art, history and world cultures.
What to see and do
- The Gothic interior — a soaring nave with carved oak choir stalls, a monumental 17th-century pulpit and stained-glass windows depicting royal history.
- The great organ — the 1655 organ by Jacob van Campen and Jacob Galtin, one of the most celebrated historic organs in the world, still used for concerts.
- The tomb of Michiel de Ruyter — the grand marble monument to the Netherlands' greatest admiral, hero of the 17th-century Anglo-Dutch wars.
- Rembrandt's connections — the church holds memorials to figures of the Golden Age, and Rembrandt's children were baptised here.
- The current exhibition — the rotating programme is the main draw: past shows have covered everything from Byzantine icons to world photography.
- The exterior on Dam Square — the flying buttresses, spire and ornate gables are best taken in from the square, beside the Royal Palace.
Official information
Nieuwe Kerk — official website
Current exhibitions, opening hours and tickets are on the church's official website. Exhibitions change several times a year, so check what is on before you visit.
Visit nieuwekerk.nlGetting there
The Nieuwe Kerk stands on Dam Square, a 10-minute walk down Damrak from Amsterdam Centraal station. Trams stop at Dam and Rokin, and the Rokin metro station (North–South line) is a few minutes away. The entrance is on the square itself, directly beside the Royal Palace.
Practical tips
- Check the exhibition programme before you go — the experience depends heavily on what is showing.
- Visit on a weekday morning for the quietest experience; weekends on Dam Square are busy.
- Combine with the Royal Palace opposite — together they make a perfect half-day on the Dam.
- The church occasionally closes for royal or state events; check the official website if your visit falls on a national occasion.
- Concerts on the great organ are held regularly and are a memorable way to hear the building.
- See every stop on our Amsterdam attractions map.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Nieuwe Kerk free to visit?
No — unlike most churches, the Nieuwe Kerk charges admission because it operates as an exhibition venue rather than a working church. Entry is included with some city passes; check the official website for current prices and exhibitions.
Why is it called the 'New' Church?
It was built in the 15th century when the Oude Kerk (Old Church) could no longer hold the growing city. Despite the name, it is over 600 years old — 'new' only in comparison.
What happens at the Nieuwe Kerk?
It is no longer a parish church. It hosts royal inaugurations — most recently King Willem-Alexander's in 2013 — royal weddings, and a programme of major art and history exhibitions throughout the year.
How long do you need at the Nieuwe Kerk?
Allow 1 to 1.5 hours: the Gothic interior, the great organ and the current exhibition. Combine it with the Royal Palace opposite for a full half-day on Dam Square.
How do I get to the Nieuwe Kerk?
It stands on Dam Square, a 10-minute walk down Damrak from Amsterdam Centraal station. Trams stop at Dam and Rokin, and the Rokin metro station (North–South line) is a few minutes away.