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Basilica of Saint Nicholas, Amsterdam

73 Prins Hendrikkade, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland

Description

The Basilica of St. Nicholas (Basiliek van de Heilige Nicolaas) was built at the end of the 19th century in a mix of neo-Baroque and neo-Renaissance styles. It is located in the Old Centre district of Amsterdam, next to the Oudezijds Kolk canal/lock and close to Central Station, the transport hub in the city. Architecturally, the main features include the two towers on either side of the main façade and the octagonal tower with a baroque style dome where the transept and the nave cross each other. The church was granted the status of minor basilica in 2012.

Access & Transport

Address: 73 Prins Hendrikkade It is possible to get there walking from many other sights in the city centre. The closest station is Centraal Station (all metro lines and tram lines 2, 12, 13, 17)

Instructions & Recommendations

Guests are requested not to walk around during celebrations. The Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder and De Oude Kerk (the Old Church) are both less than 5mins walk away.

Meta review

Seldom on the short list of the top monuments to visit, this church gets excellent reviews for its decoration and iconography, stained glass windows, and impressive dome even though this can be hard to appreciate due to the lack of luminosity inside. As many tourists point out, it isn't by any stretch one of the best churches they have seen but considering that it is free - not something very common in Amsterdam - it is certainly worth checking out. Just make sure you check the opening times for touristic purpose.

Environmental & Social

Environmentally neutral. Voluntary donations help preserve this historic building, part of the city's architectural heritage.

Conclusion

The Basilica of Saint Nicholas in Amsterdam is one of the most impressive standalone buildings in the city and has sufficient art inside to warrant a detour for anybody already in the Old Centre neighbourhood. Try to pick a sunny day for better lighting conditions inside.

Key positive

Striking and distinctive design

Free and centrally located

Key negative

Narrow visiting hours

Dark interior

Suitability

Suitable for all ages, accessible to visitors with mobility issues, and no religious denomination restrictions

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

June 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:0h 20m

est. visit time:0h 45m

Regulated hours

Monday12:15 - 15:00

Tuesday12:15 - 15:00

Wednesday12:15 - 15:00

Thursday12:15 - 15:00

Friday12:15 - 15:00

Saturday12:15 - 15:00

Sunday -

Pricing
Free

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