Pieterskerk

The Pieterskerk, also known as Sint Pieterskerk, is an ancient church that towers high above the city of Leiden.
Construction began in 1390 and was completed in stages, with the tower the last in 1560.
The church is a showpiece of late Gothic architecture and has a rich history closely associated with the city of Leiden.

An eye-catcher in the city:

• The Pieterskerk is the largest church in Leiden and dominates the city’s skyline with its 89-meter tower.
• The church has an imposing interior with beautiful stained glass windows, murals and a baroque organ.
• The Pieterskerk is the final resting place of famous Leiden people, such as Admiral Piet Heyn and the poet Constantijn Huygens.

An eventful past.
Over the centuries, the Pieterskerk has endured several sieges, policy changes and even a fire.
In the 16th century, the Pieterskerk was the center of the Reformation in Leiden.
During World War II, the church was badly damaged, but fortunately rebuilt in the 1950s.

The Pieterskerk today.
The Pieterskerk is an active Protestant congregation and regularly hosts services and concerts.
The church is open to the public and you can climb the tower for a panoramic view of Leiden.
In the Pieterskerk is the Pieterskerk Center, where you can find information about the church, exhibitions and various activities.

Some interesting facts about the Pieterskerk:

• The Pieterskerk is a national monument.
• The church has 15 bells, the oldest dating back to 1407.
• In the Pieterskerk is a crypt where members of the Orange-Nassau family are buried.
• The Pieterskerk can be reached on foot or by bus.

Are you in Leiden?
Then a visit to the Pieterskerk is definitely worth it!