The Amstelkerk

The Amstelkerk (also known as the Church of the Amstel) is a beautiful Dutch Reformed church located in Ouderkerk aan de Amstel, a municipality in the province of North Holland, Netherlands.

The church dates back to the 13th century and has undergone several renovations over the years.

• Current building:** Constructed in the 17th century in the Baroque style, with a distinctive tower that stands out from the surrounding landscape.
• The interior of the church features ornate decorations, including intricate stone carvings and stunning stained-glass windows.

Throughout its history, the Amstelkerk has played an important role in the community, serving as a place of worship, education, and social gathering.

1. Founding:** The church was founded in the 13th century by the Cistercian monks of the nearby monastery.
2. Current building dates back to the 17th century, when it was rebuilt after a fire destroyed the original structure.

The tower of the church stands at an impressive 64 meters (210 feet) tall, making it a prominent landmark in the area.

• Stained-glass windows:** The interior of the church features stunning stained-glass windows, including one from the early 15th century that is considered one of the most beautiful examples of Gothic art in the Netherlands.

The Amstelkerk has been an important cultural and social center for the community, hosting numerous concerts, exhibitions, and festivals throughout the year.

1. Previous designer:** The church's current building was constructed between 1773 and 1775 as a Dutch Reformed church, designed by Jacob Eduard de Witte. Its previous designer, Cornelis Rauws, had already created some designs in 1771.
2. Contractor:** The contractor for the project was Jan Smit from Amsterdam, and Ouderkerk fell under Amsterdam at that time.

A church bell from 1603, cast by Cornelis Ammeroy, hangs in the tower. The current organ, built by Flaes & Brünjes, dates back to 1865 but was restored in 2013 by Flentrop.

1. National monuments:** The church, parsonage, and other surrounding buildings, including the theological cottage, gateways, stable, and "diaconie houses" near the church, are all listed as national monuments. The outbuildings date from around 1880.
2. October 1, 1787, attack:** Two bullets lodged in the walls of the church remain as a reminder of the October 1, 1787, attack by the Prussians on Ouderkerk aan de Amstel.