The Grote Kerk is a Gothic cruciform basilica in the heart of the old city centre of Harderwijk, close to the boulevard. The national monument is known for its unique vault paintings and the historic Bätz-orgel. The church is the church building of the Grote Kerk parish and also the setting for concerts.
A church that became smaller
The Grote Kerk started as the Mariakapel and grew after 1415 into the parish church of Harderwijk. The tower was once the highest in Gelderland. In 1797, it collapsed during a storm, taking half of the nave with it. A new west facade was built, but the tower was never rebuilt. The outlines of the vanished part can still be seen in the paving of the Kerkplein.
Paintings under the whitewash
After the Reformation in 1578, the vault paintings by Ewolt van Delft were whitewashed. During the major restoration between 1967 and 1980, they were revealed again. They are considered unique in the Netherlands and are one of the most important sights of the church.
Organ and bells
The current organ was inaugurated in 1827, exactly thirty years after the tower collapse. During the restoration, the original sound was restored. The church also has a carillon with 47 bells.
For churchgoers and visitors
Every Sunday there are services at 9:30 and 17:00. The church is also a venue for concerts, including those by the Christelijke Oratorium Vereniging Noord-West Veluwe, and is used as a wedding location.
