Old Church

In the quaint town of Zoetermeer, nestled within the Netherlands, lies a gem of historical and architectural significance: the Old Church, locally known as Oude Kerk. This ancient structure, standing proudly in the old heart of the village, serves as a testament to the enduring spirit and rich heritage of the region. With its roots tracing back to the 15th century, the Old Church is not just a place of worship but a beacon of history, art, and culture that has withstood the test of time.

A Glimpse into History

The Old Church's storied past begins in 1296, where it is believed that a church already existed on this very site. The current structure, however, was constructed between 1785 and 1787 by the Italian architect Jan Giudici. Despite its square exterior, the church is of the cruciform type, a design choice that adds to its unique charm. The tower, a prominent feature of the church, dates back to 1642, with its brick base originating from the 15th century. This makes the Old Church the oldest building in Zoetermeer, a true historical landmark.

Architectural Marvels

As you step inside the Old Church, you are immediately greeted by a sense of serenity and timeless beauty. The interior is a masterpiece of design, with the pulpit crafted by Franciscus van Ursel from Antwerp in the Louis XVI style. The intricate details, such as rosettes, bead moldings, garlands, and leaf bundles entwined with ribbons, showcase the exquisite craftsmanship of the era. The church is adorned in light colors, and interestingly, there are no stained glass windows, giving the space a bright and airy feel.

The church houses several significant benches, including the government or Schouten's bench and two gentlemen's benches. These benches belonged to the Osy family, lords of Zegwaart, and Gerardus van Aalst Schouten and his wife Elisabeth van Revenhorst, lords and ladies of Zoetermeer. The absence of visible wood grain, with all the wood painted in a reddish-brown hue, is a unique feature resulting from a tax measure from the Napoleonic era.

The Organs

The Old Church is home to two magnificent organs, each with its own fascinating history. The main organ, a Lohman organ from 1838, underwent restoration in 1970 by Firma J. de Koff, with completion by Flentrop. In 1982, Flentrop also restored the bellows and wooden pipework and renewed the lead veneer and the reeds of the Dulcian. A tremulant was added in 1994, enhancing the organ's rich sound.

The choir organ, built by Jacob Breetvelt in 1996, was moved to the Old Church in 2006. This addition has further enriched the musical heritage of the church, making it a hub for beautiful and soulful music.

The Tower Clock and Bells

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Old Church is its tower clock, located on the second floor of the tower. Made in 1664 by Harmannus Brouckman, the city clockmaker of Leiden, this clock is one of the oldest pendulum clocks in the Netherlands. It was crafted just a few years after the invention of the pendulum mechanism by Christiaan Huygens in 1656. Although it was taken out of operation after World War II, it was thoroughly cleaned and repainted in 1996 to prevent further deterioration.

The tower also houses two historic bells, with the larger one dating back to 1667 and the smaller one to 1571. The carillon, a set of 47 bells, adds to the church's musical legacy, creating a melodious ambiance that resonates through the town.

The Churchyard

Adjacent to the church, on its southern side, lies an old churchyard, a serene resting place for the people of Zoetermeer. While burials no longer take place here, the churchyard remains a poignant reminder of the town's history and the lives that have passed through its gates.

In conclusion, the Old Church in Zoetermeer, or Oude Kerk, is more than just a building; it is a symbol of the town's rich heritage and enduring spirit. From its architectural splendor to its historical significance, the Old Church offers a glimpse into the past while continuing to serve as a place of worship and community. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, a visit to the Old Church is an experience that will leave you with a deep appreciation for the timeless beauty and cultural richness of Zoetermeer.