Religious, Spiritual sights in Amsterdam
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A
Amstelkerk
The unique pinewood Amstelkerk was erected in 1668 as a noodkerk (makeshift church) under the direction of the city architect, Daniël Stalpaert. The idea was that the congregation would have somewhere to meet while a permanent church arose next to it. Plans for a stone church were abandoned in the 1840s, and the Amstelkerk’s square interior was updated with neo-Gothic alterations, including a pipe organ. The building now houses the offices of a local city restoration group, and is a popular concert venue. The seats under the shady plane trees at the adjacent bar-restaurant NEL are a wonderful place to nurse a drink.
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B
Nieuwe Kerk
The Nieuwe Kerk, is a historical stage for Dutch coronations. The 15th-century, late-Gothic basilica is only ‘new’ in relation to the Oude Kerk. A few monumental items dominate the otherwise spartan interior – a magnificent carved oak chancel, a bronze choir screen, a massive organ and enormous stained-glass windows. The building is now used for exhibitions and organ concerts. Opening times and admission fees can vary, depending on what’s going on.
reviewed
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C
Guan Yin Shrine
The Guan Yin Shrine is Europe’s first Chinese-imperial-style Buddhist temple. It is dedicated to Guan Yin, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, and it’s worth a peek inside.
reviewed
