The Broederenkerk

Officially known as the Roman-Catholic St. Lebuïnus Church, this beautiful Catholic church is located in Deventer, Netherlands.

• The original church dates back to around 1220, although there were likely earlier Christian places of worship on this site.

The church was built in the early 13th century, making it one of the oldest churches in the Netherlands. Over the centuries, the church has undergone several renovations and expansions, including a major restoration in the late 19th century.

Architecture

The Broederenkerk is a Gothic-style church with a striking façade featuring a large rose window. The church's tower, which stands at about 75 meters (246 feet) tall, was added in the 15th century and is adorned with intricate stone carvings.

• Inside, the church features stunning stained-glass windows, ornate woodcarvings, and a beautifully preserved organ.

Significance

The Broederenkerk holds great cultural and historical significance for Deventer and the Netherlands as a whole. It has served as a place of worship, community gathering, and cultural hub for centuries, hosting numerous notable events and ceremonies throughout its history.

1. Today, it remains an important landmark in the city's skyline and a popular tourist destination.
2. The Broederenkerk is one of the oldest churches in the Netherlands still in use today. The church's tower was once used as a watchtower to alert the city of potential threats.
3. The stained-glass windows were created by renowned Dutch artist, Willem Danielszoon, in the 16th century.

History

Deventer, officially known as the Roman-Catholic St. Lebuïnus Church, is a church in Deventer, built between 1335 and 1338 at the request of Eleonora van Engeland, then Duchess of Gelre.

• Before the church was built, a monastery had been founded around 1300 by Franciscan friars.

Although the brothers left the monastery and church definitively in 1579, the informal but completely ingrained name of the God's House recalls their long-standing presence. From 1579 to 1799, the church building, with a brief interruption, was used by Deventer Protestants.