Velvet Escape

The Oude Kerk or Old Church is one of the oldest buildings in Amsterdam (or perhaps the oldest), its origins dating back to the early 13th century when a modest wooden chapel stood on the banks of the Amstel. Consecrated in 1306 as the Church of Saint Nicholas, patron saint of sailors, it gradually expanded into the magnificent Gothic hall church seen today.

Interestingly, the city’s Red Light district grew up around it. When the church was built in the 13th century, it stood at the heart of a busy harbour settlement where sailors, merchants and fishermen gathered. As Amsterdam grew into one of Europe’s greatest trading ports during the 15th and 16th centuries, thousands of sailors arrived in the city every week. The streets surrounding the church, close to the harbour and docks, became lined with inns, taverns, gambling houses and brothels catering to these visitors.

Today, the church is a venue for international exhibitions and concerts.