The Old and New Church of Delft

The Old and New Church of Delft: where stories converge 

The Old and New Churches are iconic landmarks of Delft, each telling tales of the city's rich history. If you want to discover Delft, a visit of these two churches with their many monuments is a must! 

Old Church  

Since the 13th century, the Old Church has dominated the skyline of Delft. Its tower, known as the 'Skewed John', leans two meters off vertically! Inside, you will find the graves of famous Delft residents such as the world-renowned painter Johannes Vermeer, seafarers Piet Hein and Maarten Tromp, scientist Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, benefactor Clara van Spaerwoude, and Elisabeth Morgan, the daughter of Philips van Marnix (who wrote the Dutch national anthem). When the sun shines, you can experience the magical way light streams through the stained-glass windows of this beautiful Gothic church. 

Piet Hein's tomb monument is currently undergoing a thorough restoration. This has led to an exhibition about his life and career, titled Piet Hein: the Death of a Sea Hero. Peek behind the construction wall, dream about life on a 17th century ship, and learn about the impact of the silver fleet on the emergence of organized Dutch trade in enslaved people. On the other side of the church, temporary exhibitions are always on view. Until September 28th, 2024, you can visit The Close to Home Show: Daisy Ranoe and IJM on modern slavery. 

New Church  

The New Church, located on Delft’s market square, is also known as the Orange Church because of its strong ties to the Royal House. Since William of Orange, members of the royal family have been interred in the royal crypt here. For centuries, William of Orange’s tomb has been a major attraction. The extensive permanent exhibition tells the unique story of the relationship between the church and the Oranges. 

Climb the tower of the New Church. At 108.75 meters, it is the second-highest church tower in the Netherlands and offers breathtaking views over Delft and its surroundings. Don’t forget to bring your camera! 

There is so much more to discover… Wander through these monumental places of worship, admire the beautiful stained-glass windows, discover the graves and stories of famous and lesser-known Delft residents, learn about the iconoclasm, and marvel at the impressive organs. These are the places to truly experience the history of Delft!  

Book tickets online at onkd.nl. 

Escape Route ‘Secrets of Iconoclasm’  

Would you like to get to know the Old and New Church of Delft in a unique way? Go on an adventure and unravel Secrets of Iconoclasm. In about 75-90 minutes, you crack codes, follow cryptic clues, and solve a series of puzzles. Your goal? To find a hidden treasure that was concealed during the iconoclasm, a tumultuous period when Protestants destroyed artworks in their fight against “idolatry.”  

Go to onkd.nl/escaperoute and book a time slot for a unique adventure for young and old!