Step into the Grote of Jacobijnerkerk, Leeuwarden's oldest building, to experience centuries of Dutch history and sacred art. Originally constructed in the 13th century as part of a Dominican monastery founded in 1245, this Protestant church is packed with historic milestones. It was restored after a 1392 fire, expanded in 1504 and 1521, and hosted famous figures like theologian Albertus Magnus in 1256.
When you visit, you will find a remarkably rich interior that tells the story of the nation. Look out for the remnants of murals originally completed in 1575, which were painted over during the Reformation in 1578 and rediscovered in 1972. Pay your respects near the choir, home to one of only three royal crypts in the Netherlands, where members of the Frisian Nassaus were entombed.
Admire a modern bronze relief by sculptor Eric Claus, unveiled in 2018 to mark the Diet requested by William the Silent in 1581. You will also see impressive stained glass windows, including Cor Reisma's 1957 Nassau windows, the WWII reconstruction "Wilhelmina window" designed by Dick Osinga, and the "William Louis" and "Marie Louise" windows by Jos de Ridder. Musically inclined visitors can appreciate the main 1727 Christian Müller baroque organ, alongside instruments by Vermeulen and Metzler Orgelbau, which have attracted iconic performers like Camille Saint-Saëns and Albert Schweitzer.
What to see at Grote of Jacobijnerkerk
- Discover Leeuwarden's oldest building, with roots dating back to a 13th-century monastery.
- Admire the famous 1727 main baroque organ built by Amsterdam's Christian Müller.
- See the historic choir area housing one of the three Dutch royal crypts.
- View colorful stained glass, including the 1963 "Wilhelmina window" and 1957 royal windows.
- Examine 16th-century mural remnants uncovered during 1970s restorations.
Visiting tips
Be sure to look for the commemorative plaque placed under the Wilhelmina window in 2005 in memory of Queen Juliana.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Grote of Jacobijnerkerk is easy to reach on Leeuwarden’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Leeuwarden travel guide.
See the full Leeuwarden travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.