Sint-Bavokerk

The Sint-Bavokerk is a church located in Heemstede, Netherlands. The exact address of the church is: Herenweg 88k, 2105 ME Heemstede, Netherlands.

• Dutch Reformed Church: The Sint-Bavokerk was built in the 14th century and has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries. The current building dates back to the 17th century, with additions made in the 19th and 20th centuries.
• Renaissance Style: The church's architecture is characteristic of the Dutch Renaissance style, with a distinctive tower and a rectangular shape.

1. The interior features stunning stained-glass windows, intricate wood carvings, and ornate stone decorations.
2. History: De Sint-Bavokerk was designed by Evert Margry, one of the most important students of Pierre Cuypers. The church was mainly built from red brickstone.

The bishop of Haarlem laid the first stone on April 4, 1878, and the new church was consecrated on October 1, 1879.

• World War II: The church was seriously damaged during World War II when a German V1 rocket hit the church on November 14, 1944. Two days later, the Germans detonated the bomb, causing significant damage to the church and the parsonage.

1. New stained-glass windows were installed in 1949 behind the main altar, designed by renowned glass artist Han Bijvoet.
2. In October 1951, the Maria- and Jozefkapel were decorated with new stained-glass windows. In the Mariakapel is the representation of the H. Joachim and Anna, the parents of the H. Maagd Maria. In the Jozefkapel is the representation of Jozef van Egypte and the H. Benedictus Jozef Labre.

In 1972, the old organ from 1833 was restored and moved to its current location in the church. In 2000, a new Bavobeeld was designed and placed to celebrate the church's 120th anniversary.

• Restoration: In 2008, work began on restoring the old, no longer used baptismal chapel. It was discovered that there was a need for a chapel that is accessible daily.