Sint-Laurenskerk

The Sint-Laurenskerk is a significant symbol of Rotterdam’s history. It is the only remaining late Gothic building in what was once a medieval village. The construction of the Laurenskerk took place between 1449 and 1525. However, even before 1449, there was already a place of worship at the current location of the Sint-Laurenskerk.

This church is dedicated to Saint Lawrence of Rome, who was a respected figure in the archdiocese of Rome. He met a martyr’s death in the year 258, being burned at the stake. Saint Lawrence is considered the patron saint of both the city and the diocese of Rotterdam.

Originally a Roman Catholic church, it underwent a transformation during the Protestant Reformation in 1572 and became a Protestant church. As a result, the altars were removed, and all statues were taken down by the city council to accommodate Protestant worship. The statues were kept safely in a secret place.

During the intense bombing of Rotterdam on May 14, 1940, the church suffered severe damage. Only the foundations, walls, and tower of the church remained. Restoration work began in 1947 and concluded in 1968. The government provided substantial financial support, covering 90% of the restoration costs. In 1952, Queen Juliana visited the site and laid the first stone. The restoration was officially inaugurated in 1968 in the presence of Princess Beatrix and Prince Claus.

Sint-Laurenskerk boasts five organs. The primary organ, as well as the organ pipes in the transept and choir, were crafted by the Danish organist Marcussen during the reconstruction. The organ case, designed by J.W.C. Besemer, also dates to that time. The new Marcussen organ, with 85 registers and 7,600 pipes, was inaugurated in 1973, becoming the largest church organ in the Netherlands.

The main entrance of Sint-Laurenskerk features remarkable bronze doors designed by the Italian artist Manzù. Manzù, known for his earlier works at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and Salzburg Cathedral, created a motif representing “War and Peace.” Inside the church, you can also find three marble tombs honoring the maritime heroes Kortenaar, Van Brakel, and Witte de With.

Adjacent to the church is a park where you’ll discover the oldest bronze statue in the country: a 1622 sculpture of Erasmus of Rotterdam.

Besides religious services, Sint-Laurenskerk hosts concerts, exhibitions, readings, and even private celebrations.

At the entrance, you’ll find an information desk and a shop. Guided tours to the tower are available twice a week, offering a splendid panoramic view of the city.

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