Grote Kerk Alkmaar

The Grote Sint Laurenskerk, or simply the Grote Kerk, in Alkmaar is an impressive building from the early 16th century. For hundreds of years, the impressive Gothic building has been a gathering place for Alkmaarders of all shapes and sizes. With its high vaults, colorful stained glass windows, antique organs and many works of art, it is no surprise that the church has been nicknamed 'Jewel of the City' for centuries.

In 2018, the 500th anniversary of the Grote Kerk was celebrated with various festive events and the homecoming of a masterpiece. The monumental Grote Kerk no longer has a religious function, but with a well-filled annual agenda of photo exhibitions, classical concerts and other events, it is now the cultural living room of Alkmaar. Every now and then, church works, such as JS Bach's 'Matthäus Passion', are still performed in the obviously very suitable ambiance of the church.