New Church (Nieuwe Kerk) in Amsterdam celebrates 600 years anniversary

The New Church, on Dam Square, celebrates its 600th anniversary.

The New Church is called 'new', because there was already another church, which is now called the Old Church (in the Red Light District). The then parish was split in two, and a new church was built.
Old documents can prove its use as a church back to 1410.

Although built as a catholic church, from 1578 the New Church has been protestant.

The monumental church building is well worth visiting. The church is also known as the place where the coronation of the King or Queen, as well as the national Remembrance Day service on 4 May takes place. In 1980, Queen Beatrix was officially inaugurated in De Nieuwe Kerk. On 2 February 2002 the wedding between the Prince of Orange and Princess Máxima took place.

The New Church is particularly well-known for its exhibitions on treasures, cultures and religions from other countries.

Part of the festivities is that June 2010 is the month of religious music. Throughout the month, there will be several performances. All performances are free (after you paid entrance to the church), except the Sunday organ concerts.
See The New Church for more info.