Amsterdam - Table of Contents ................ Architecture Around the World
Oude Kerk
23 Oudekerksplein, Amsterdam, Netherlands
The origins of the Oude Kerk date from the early 13th century, when a wooden church was built in a burial ground on a sand bank.
The present Gothic structure is 14th century and has grown from a single-aisled church into a basilica. As it expanded, the building became a gathering place for traders and a refuge for the poor.
The church's paintings and statuary were destroyed after the Alteration in 1578, but the gilded ceiling and stained-glass windows were undamaged. The Great Organ was added in 1724, and the stark interior has changed little since.
|
|
|
|
|
|
A combination of Dutch Renaissance (steeple) and Gothic styles |
Dutch Renaissance steeple |
Gothic style roofs |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Barrel roof. Gilded ceiling: The delicate 15th century vault paintings have a gilded background. |
Ribbed vaults supported by tie beams |
Chancel (stripped by the Alteration) |
|
|
|
|||
