Basilica of Saint Nicholas, Amsterdam
 

Date Visited

November 2024

 
 
Netherlands


Amsterdam


Basilica of Saint Nicholas




 

Summary

Built between 1884 and 1887 in Neo-Baroque and Neo-Renaissance styles, the Basilica of Saint Nicholas is the main Catholic church in Amsterdam and is an impressive sight both inside and externally.  With its nave and two side aisles the basilica contains many beautiful murals and artworks which include numerous statues.

 


The Basilica of Saint Nicholas, also known as St. Nicholas Church, is the primary Roman Catholic church in Amsterdam.

Designed by architect Adrianus Bleijs, it was built between 1884 and 1887 to replace the Amstelkring Church, which had served as the main Catholic church in Amsterdam.  Dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of the city, it was originally called St. Nicholas inside the Walls, referring to its location within the old city walls of Amsterdam.

The church is a combination of Neo-Baroque and Neo-Renaissance styles which gives it a grand and ornate appearance.

The main facade is flanked by two towers, with a rose window depicting Christ and the four Evangelists in between. The central dome is highly ornate and features four levels of stained glass.

The facade features rich decorative elements, including intricate carvings and stonework. Adorned with sculptures representing Saint Peter and Saint Paul, as well as Pope Leo XIII and Bishop Schaepman, the prominent figures in Dutch Catholicism, which add to the facade's ornate and historical character.

The facade is flanked by two large towers which are designed to draw the eye upward, emphasizing the verticality and grandeur of the structure. These add to the imposing presence of the basilica, a design feature which are a hallmark of Baroque architecture.

A striking feature of the façade is the rose window situated centrally between the two towers.  The window depicts Christ and the four Evangelists.

The central dome, positioned above the church crossing, is the large octagonal tower with a Baroque-style dome and lantern with the cross mounted on top. Encircling the dome are four levels of stained glass. This makes the basilica easily seen from around the city.


 


On entry the interior has a central nave and two side aisles.


 


 


The high vaulted ceilings create a sense of grandeur and spaciousness  within the basilica. This design not only enhances the acoustics but also draws the eye upward, emphasizing the verticality of the space. The ceiling features ornate architectural details, such as decorative mouldings, cornices, and rosettes. These elements add to the overall richness and complexity of the interior design.


 


The walls and ceilings are richly decorated with beautiful artworks, including murals by Jan Dunselman, which depict religious themes and scenes from the life of Saint Nicholas.


 


The basilica features beautiful stained-glass windows created by Max Weber, these depict biblical stories and scenes from the life of Saint Nicholas. The stained-glass windows reflect the religious and cultural heritage of the basilica and the broader Catholic tradition and add to the overall splendour and reverence of the building.


 


Located near the entrance in its own beautiful area is the baptismal fontMade of marble with intricate carvings and elaborate metal cover, it reflect the church's Neo-Baroque and Neo-Renaissance architectural styles.


 


Throughout the interior are intricate carvings in white and red marble, and numerous statues and sculptures.





As the church's patron saint, there are several statues of Saint Nicholas throughout the basilica. These often depict him in his bishop's attire, holding a staff and sometimes accompanied by children, reflecting his role as the protector of children and sailors. The statues of angels are positioned around the basilica as are the statues of the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph, which are placed in prominent locations.


Over the crossing is the central dome which includes a Baroque-style lantern that allows natural light to filter into the space through the four rows of stained-glass windows.


 


Passed the crossing is the sanctuary, where the high altar is located.


 


The high altar is made of stone and copper and it’s design is richly detailed, with intricate carvings and ornamentation. This includes statues of angels, each holding symbols of the Passion, adding to its spiritual significance.


 


On the left side of the high altar, located at the end of the aisle, is the Altar of the Virgin Mary. This is adorned with intricate carvings, floral motifs, and religious symbols as well as a statue of Mary holding the infant Jesus.


 


On the right of the high altar is the altar dedicated to Saint Joseph, this is richly decorated with carvings and symbols associated with the Saint and includes a statue of him holding the child Jesus.


 


Located at the south end of the nave is the pulpit, which is an excellent example of Neo-Baroque design, featuring its intricate carvings and decorations that reflect the artistic style of the period. The pulpit was designed by Pierre Elysee van den Bossche at the end of the 19th century.


 


Within the basilica are two organs: the Willibrord Organ and the organ built by F.C.V. Sauer, which is one of the largest in the Netherlands and known for its powerful and beautiful sound.


 




 

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              All  Photographs were taken by and are copyright of Ron Gatepain

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