Nieuwe Kerk

The Nieuwe Kerk is one of Amsterdam's most iconic buildings, and is located on the Dam Square, next to the Royal Palace, and dates from the early 15th century. The Nieuwe Kerk has undergone heavy renovations and changes over the course of it's history, and different architectural styles can be seen in it's design as a result. A tower was originally planned, and construction has been attempted twice, but due to political and above all religious reasons, construction was forced to halt on both occasions, leaving only the lower fundaments intact.

Due to reduced numbers of church-goers, maintenance of the church could no longer be paid for, and therefore, in 1980, it lost it's role as a church and instead became a cultural center. Exhibitions are frequently organized today, as are organ-concerts.

It's also the location for royal coronations and marriages. A number of famous historical people also have their tombs in the church, most noteably Michiel de Ruyter, the country's most famous naval hero.