Looks nice but disappoints (Nieuwe Kerk)

Member Name: nickn5

Product:	Nieuwe Kerk
Date:	26/07/09 (14 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Rich heritage, nice architecture

Disadvantages: Expensive to get in

The Nieuwe Kerk in Amsterdam is easily found if you arrive by train at the main Amsterdam Central station. Simply go out of the station straight ahead along the main street or Damrak, and turn right at the Dam Square, by the Koninglijk Paleis - the church is then on the right.

It would be hard to miss the church, despite it being set back from the main square, as it has a very grand-looking decoratively ornate frontage which makes one wonder why it is called the 'Nieuwe' or New church when it looks so old. But then in Amsterdam all things are relative, and there is also an 'Oude' or Old church which has been in existence far longer.

I have been to the Nieuwe Kerk twice, and on the most recent occasion I was less than impressed. The exterior, as mentioned above, looks very grand and makes for a nice photo, and the inside does too, except that on my visit in March 2009, virtually the whole interior seemed to be covered up with banners for an exhibition. To get past the advertising banners and take some photos, I could have paid 10 Euros to go in to the church properly, but I dislike churches that charge money for entry (I don't mind a donation).

If you do go in, there are some interesting things to be seen, including a very ornately painted set of shutters for the organ (which played a recital on my first visit), and some very impressive stained glass windows. There is an enormous carved wood 'prijkstoel' or preachers pulpit, and if you walk around the outer parts of the church, you'll discover that many of the Dutch naval heroes are buried at the church.
Royal weddings and inaugaration ceremonies have also taken place there as recently as 2002, and you can see some of the pictures taking pride of place near the entrance.

Next to the entrance there is the obligatory church shop which you can access without having to pay the entry fee. On my first visit this shop sold some rather nice Delftware souvenirs, which I took advantage of, but more recently it had been taken over by some odd merchandise which I assume was connected with the exhibition. A shame. Especially as I had broken one of my previous purchases and was hoping to get a replacement.

I wouldn't go out of your way to visit this venue, there are more worthwhile things to be seen and done in the Netherlands, and if you're in that area of Amsterdam, you should take a look at the Anne Frank House instead.

Summary: Only see if you're passing anyway