Westerkerk, Amsterdam Overview

Nestled between Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht, the beautiful church is among the oldest Protestant churches in Amsterdam. With its incredible architecture and design, Westerkerk stands out as one of the most celebrated monuments in the city.

With a rich historical significance, the Westerkerk church is a reformed church subsumed within the Dutch Protestant Church. The site of Rembrandt’s burial, Weterkerk is a culturally relevant hotbed. It is situated right next to the infamous Annex where Anne Frank and her family once hid to flee Nazi prosecution. The church and the tolling of its bells have been mentioned in her memoir many times.

The view from on top of the church is breathtaking as you see the city of Amsterdam stretching out below you. Adorned with a crown, the marvellous architecture is credited to architect Hendrick de Keyser’s fascination with Renaissance styles. It is recommended you take a guided tour to truly understand the significance of Westerkerk in the Netherlands’ history.

History of Westerkerk

Commissioned by the City Council of Amsterdam, Westerkerk was built between 1620 and 1631. A primary reason for building the church was the influx of people into urban areas. While Noorderkerk was built for the craftsmen in the district of Jordaan, Weterkerk served as a church for the wealthy on the other end of Prinsengracht.

westerkerk church, attraction in Amsterdam, crown, Rembrandt — Source

The church of Westerkerk is loaded with historically significant attractions. Starting from the 85m tall crown, painted golden in memory of Rembrandt to the Westertoren carillon which can be heard playing through the day.

Timings for Westerkerk

Westerkerk is open to visitors all year round: 11am – 3pm, all weekdays except Sundays.
Westerkerk Tower is open to visitors from April to October. Both – the church and the tower, are closed to visitors on Sunday.

Each Sunday at 10.30 A.M., there is a religious service at the church.

Westerkerk Tower

The Westerkerk Toren, at 85 m in height, gives one of the best panoramic views of the city. The tallest structure in the inner city, the top half of the platform is a wood structure encased in sandstone or lead. The tower is only accessible through guided tours which take place every 30 minutes and the only way to the top is to climb the winding staircase. Keep a lookout for the Prinsengracht canal and the Anne Frank house.

Timings: April to October: Mon-Sat 9 AM - 8 PM
Closed on Sundays

Tickets: EUR 9 for a tour, minimum age 6 years. Private group tours (6 people maximum) are also available from EUR 99Efteling has a good rel