Noorderkerk (Northern Church), Amsterdam

The Northern Church stands prominently at the intersection of Noordermarkt (Northern Market), serving as a notable landmark within the neighborhood. This unadorned church holds historical significance as one of the earliest constructions following the Protestant Reformation and represents the final architectural work attributed to Hendrick de Keyser. Surprisingly distinct in style from his other notable churches in the city, namely the Southern and Western churches, it was erected to cater to the impoverished residents of the Jordaan neighborhood. It takes the form of an austere brick structure, characterized by its short spire and bulky, somewhat imposing appearance—a stark departure from the prevailing church designs of the era.

Constructed with a stark, austere appearance, it featured a squat spire and a rather imposing, bulky structure, deviating radically from the conventional church architectural norms of its time. Notably, it adopted a symmetrical Greek cross floor plan, with four arms of equal dimensions extending from a central steeple. This unyieldingly somber design underscored the solemn commitment of the Calvinist congregation that gathered here. The positioning of the pulpit at the center, rather than the front of the church, symbolized a deliberate departure from Catholic traditions.

Visitors can enjoy weekly concerts at Noorderkerk every Saturday at 2pm, scheduled from June to September.