Sint Walburgiskerk

Sint Walburgiskerk, also known as Sint-Walburgiskerk in the local language, is a magnificent testament to the rich history and architectural splendor of Zutphen, Netherlands. This awe-inspiring church, located at 's-Gravenhof, has stood the test of time, with its origins dating back to the 11th century. The current structure, predominantly from the first half of the 13th century, has remained largely unchanged since the 16th century, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

The History of Sint Walburgiskerk

The roots of Sint Walburgiskerk stretch back to the 9th century when a small stone church stood on the site of the present-day structure. This early church was likely dedicated to Mary, who remained the parish's patron saint until the Reformation. By 1059, a chapter associated with the church was already in existence, and the church was initially dedicated to both Saint Peter and Saint Walburga. However, Saint Peter's association faded by the 12th century.

In 1105, Bishop Burchard of Utrecht consecrated a new chapter church, a Romanesque building featuring a high choir, crypt, and two side choirs, reflecting the tradition of Utrecht's chapter churches. Between 1200 and 1270, the church underwent significant renovations, transforming it into a Romano-Gothic basilica. The tower, constructed during this period, would later undergo several height increases. From 1370 to 1390, a series of chapels were added around the choir, followed by the council chapel in 1393.

A devastating tower fire in 1446 led to the tower's height being increased, and in 1482-84, a massive needle spire was added, bringing the tower's height to an impressive 107.5 meters. The extended transepts were built in 1492 and 1499, and the final additions included the Maria portal around 1515 and the Librije in 1563-64. Until around 1250, Sint Walburgiskerk was the only parish church in Zutphen until the establishment of the Nieuwstadskerk.

Renaissance and Beyond

The tower of Sint Walburgiskerk, originally 107.5 meters tall, was the tallest in the Netherlands until a lightning strike in 1600 reduced its height to 76 meters. In 1633, the current peperbus (pepper pot) was added to the stone tower. This crown burned down on March 30, 1948, but after a prolonged debate about the new crown, it was rebuilt in its original form between 1967 and 1970. The church is also home to the Librije, a chain library established in 1563, one of only three remaining libraries of this type in Europe.

Since 1591, Sint Walburgiskerk has been a Protestant church. Following the Protestant takeover, all 40 altars were removed, and in 1595, the crypt's vault was demolished, and the floor was leveled. The church underwent its first major restoration between 1890 and 1919, led by B. Peteri and architect H.A. Ezerman, with P.J.H. Cuypers serving as an advisor. The church suffered significant damage in 1945, which was repaired during the 1948-1962 restoration. The tower's peperbus crown, which burned down in 1948, was rebuilt in 1970. A restoration focused on the interior took place from 1979 to 1998, and the North Portal (Maria Portal) was restored in 1992.

In 2016, the ownership of Sint Walburgiskerk was transferred from the Protestant Municipality of Zutphen to the Stichting Oude Gelderse Kerken (SOGK). The Walburgiskerk Zutphen foundation is now responsible for its operation. During the summer, the Bader organ is played during Sunday services and many concerts.

Architectural and Artistic Treasures

Sint Walburgiskerk is home to several remarkable artifacts and architectural features. These include a sarcophagus lid from the late 12th or early 13th century, an iron candle crown (tiara) from the late 14th century, and a bronze baptismal font from 1527 by Gilles van der Eynde from Mechelen. The church also houses an organ by Hans Henrick Bader from 1637, a 17th-century pulpit, and a vast collection of tombstones from the 15th to 18th centuries, as well as several epitaphs from the late 15th century.

The Main Organ

The church boasts three organs, with the main organ built by Hans Henrick Bader in 1639. It is considered the largest Dutch organ from the late Renaissance/early Baroque period. The instrument has been significantly altered and expanded over the years by organ builders Johannes Wilhelmus Timpe (1813) and Nicolaus Anthony Lohman (1824). In 1976 and 1996, the organ was restored by the Reil organ workshop and returned to its 17th-century state. In 2016, a virtual version (sample set) of the organ was made available for Hauptwerk. The instrument features 38 registers divided over three manuals and an independent pedal, with mechanical action.

In conclusion, Sint Walburgiskerk is not just a place of worship but a symbol of Zutphen's enduring history and architectural heritage. Its towering presence, rich history, and stunning interior make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this charming Dutch city.