The St. Bavo Church in Haarlem image

The St. Bavo Church in Haarlem

Tourist attraction Church Protestant church

One of the Most Revieweds in Haarlem


Address

Grote Markt 22, 2011 RD Haarlem, Netherlands

Website

www.bavo.nl

Contact

+31 23 553 2040

Rating on Google Maps

4.50 (3.4K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Sunday: Closed
  • Monday: (New Year's Day), 10 am to 5 pm, Hours might differ
  • Tuesday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Wednesday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Thursday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Friday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Saturday: 10 am to 5 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: church (26) organ (19) Haarlem (15) Church (11) history (10) beautiful (10) visit (10) played (9) Bavo (9) city (7)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Elena O. 2 years ago on Google
    St. Bavokerk (DE GROT SINT BAVOCHER TUE Chaaler) is a reformed Protestant Church and a former Catholic Cathedral located on the Central Market Square in Haarlem. I love to come to this wonderful, full of history city, walk along its quiet narrow streets, admire its Beautiful Architecture and,of course, its Grand Cathedral that rises above the city. And what Solemnity fills the Cathedral when the music of one of the most important organs in the world is played!!!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ania S. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful church located on the main square and easy accessible. You can admire the pipe organs that were played in 1776 by a 10 year old Mozart as well as countless amazing details (stained glass windows, wooden sculptures, etc.). There is a small cafe onsite where for 1€ you can have a hot beverage. Souvenir shop offers many cute items related to the church, Haarlem or Dutch art.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dr. B. 9 months ago on Google
    The St. Bavo Church, also known as the Grote Kerk or the Great Church, is a famous landmark located in the city of Haarlem, Netherlands. It is one of the largest Gothic churches in the country and is dedicated to St. Bavo, the patron saint of the city. The construction of the church began in the 14th century and took several centuries to complete. The architecture of the St. Bavo Church is characterized by its tall spire and stunning stained glass windows. The church's interior features intricate woodwork, beautiful sculptures, and a grand organ that is widely regarded as one of the most important organs in Europe. The St. Bavo Church is not only a place of worship but also an important cultural site. It has hosted numerous concerts, exhibitions, and other cultural events throughout the years. The church also houses several works of art, including paintings by renowned Dutch artists such as Frans Hals and Jacob van Campen. Visitors to the St. Bavo Church can explore its stunning interior, climb the 60-meter-high spire for panoramic views of the city, and even attend organ concerts that showcase the church's impressive organ. Overall, the St. Bavo Church is a significant historical and cultural monument in Haarlem, attracting both locals and tourists alike with its architectural beauty and rich history.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ellen S. 1 year ago on Google
    An amazing church - one of the most beautiful ones in the Netherlands! It was built in 1370-1538. The floor consists entirely of gravestones. Has a lot of interesting things to look at. Also, Mozart played here.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shachar P. 1 year ago on Google
    High and impressive Gothic church in the main square of Haarlem. It hosts many artworks, and also houses the famous Müller organ, the largest in Europe, that was played by Handel and Mozart (when he was 10 years old). There's also a legend that you can read about, of a giant who is buried in the church. Unfortunately, entering is not free and costs 3 euros. It's maybe a fair price, but I believe that places like churches (or synagogues or mosques) should be open to the public for free
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Uroš K. 8 months ago on Google
    Beautiful church. If you're in Haarlem take time and take a walk around. There's even a little caffe. We were lucky there was someone playing on organs that made a visit even more memorable.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 M H. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful old church. I recommend reading about it before you visit. It will help you appreciate the long history of this magnificent building.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Mohit A. 1 year ago on Google
    This church is in Middle of Haarlem centrum, it’s very old around of 1400. Ticket charge for Adults are €3 and free till kids of age 12 years. With ticket they will provide you the tour guide pamphlet with different languages. There is an organ inside the church which is built up with 5k pipes. It’s very beautiful and sound music of organ is also very melodious. Visit at least for the organ and sound.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Subbu V. 1 year ago on Google
    Great architecture and history. After going around get a coffee or water for a euro. A calm place to learn and meditate
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sewqii K. 2 years ago on Google
    Wonderful atmosphere,historical place amazing church, if you have holiday in Haarlem Nederland, one of the most beautiful place you must to visit
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Pingky S. 1 year ago on Google
    The St. Bavo Church in Haarlem is an extraordinary building that is both beautiful and awe-inspiring. The church's history and Gothic architecture are captivating and leave visitors in wonder. The church has been an integral part of the city for centuries, and its many graves in the floor serve as a poignant reminder of the people who have lived and died in the area. The church's impressive organ is one of the most remarkable musical instruments in the world, and its exceptional acoustics make it a venue that every music lover should visit at least once. Even if you're not particularly interested in music, hearing the sound of the organ echoing through the vast space of the church is a powerful experience. One of the most remarkable things about the St. Bavo Church is that it is no longer used for religious purposes, but the spiritual atmosphere is still palpable. Visitors cannot help but feel a sense of reverence and wonder when they step inside the building. It is a testament to the church's rich history and the many people who have been touched by its beauty. In conclusion, the St. Bavo Church in Haarlem is a place that is difficult to describe accurately in words. Its Gothic architecture, history, and unique features make it a must-visit for anyone traveling to the area. The church's authenticity, spirit, and grandeur make it a place that will stay with you long after you have left.

  • 5/5 D E. 8 months ago on Google
    Wonderful church in the centre of Haarlem. My group had a tour of the lower attic and the depth of knowledge from our tour guide was impeccable. Highly recommended a visit.

  • 5/5 Ben M. 9 months ago on Google
    Extraordinary place, absolutely a must visit. The altar area at the front was open (Monday around 1pm) for silent reflection, but is otherwise closed. The building is enormous and the space feels really qiote special. The free map points out interesting features well, and of course the organ is one of the most visually impressive in the country. Worth the €4 entry price.

  • 5/5 King J. 8 months ago on Google
    I already wrote a review 🤔......beautiful Cathedral!!! And I found out that Mozart and Händel have played the organ here (which I was fortunate to catch a recital when I was there).

  • 5/5 Jeroen de G. 5 months ago on Google
    As local or as tourist, do visit this special Church. Thanks to the guide, information flyer or just use your eyes and read the interesting information. It gives you so much more information of this very special area. It is a time stamp of several moments. You can feel the history and read the reasons why and what happened. Please do also visit the other musea in Haarlem. Visit some restaurants and enjoy your day in this very special city.

  • 5/5 Erik van der V. 1 year ago on Google
    The building is enormous. Especially the organ is very impressive, but I also liked the wooden ceiling. I never saw ships miniatures hanging in a church (although the next day we found that the church in Alkmaar also has a ship) Pay attention to some of the details in the woods carvings. I really liked the church-eater.

  • 5/5 Max E. 11 months ago on Google
    A stunning church in the centre of Haarlem. The highlight is the absolutely amazing organ which Mozzart played. Very small fee to pay to enter and it is a wonderful place to relax and take some time on life.

  • 4/5 Ninette 2 years ago on Google
    It is huge but not a lot to look at. The organ was under repair. I think it would be amazing for a concert.

  • 5/5 Julia 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing architecture and lots of religious symbolism and amazing art. 1500 graves make up the floor of the church. The biggest church organ takes precedence and if you're lucky someone will be playing it. Small shop and written guides. 2€ entry fee. Recommended

  • 5/5 FLORA S. 2 years ago on Google
    An amazing beautiful church with the biggest church instrument I have ever seen. They actually use it and as we there someone was playing. They had wrote that even Mozart had played at this instrument. It is located in a beautiful cozy square!

  • 4/5 Harneet K. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful & Momentous! I have been here couple of times and both times I have bren always in awe of it's sheer splendor. Definitely worth visiting and knowing it's history. Recently attended a lessons and carols night on Dec 16. Beautiful event.

  • 5/5 Pritikamon K. 1 year ago on Google
    Located in the center of Haarlem, I didn’t visit inside unfortunately. But we can enjoy the view around the church.

  • 5/5 Yeong Chyuan C. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful church. Floor consists entirely of gravestones. 10-year old Mozart played the Christian Muller organ.

  • 5/5 Lyle F. 1 year ago on Google
    Wonderful contemplative Sanctuary where we were treated to a beautiful organ concert. Great event to cap off Amsterdam visit

  • 4/5 Hey Demi Ann (Demi A. 1 year ago on Google
    Lovely church very big and really old ! Loved learning the history and listening to the organ playing the whole time just too special. €3 for entrance as an adult. Just a tip card card card , cash is hard all over to use !

  • 5/5 Carl C. 2 years ago on Google
    Quite a historic church in the Grote Markt of Haarlem. True story = the organ within was played by Mozart when he was but 10 years old. its a beautiful building and well-worth the stop if you are in the area.


Call +31 23 553 2040 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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