Nieuwe Kerk, Delft

Neuwe Kirche on a snowy day

The Nieuwe Kerk anchors one end of Delft’s main square, Markt.

You can’t miss the church’s soaring 100-meter spire. Climb to the top for vast views over the flat Dutch region. I did not bother going to the top since it was grey and snowy, but it apparently offers an enticing view on clear days.

Elaborate chandeliers illuminate the aisle

Though this is called the new church (it was the second parish church in Delft), there’s been a religious structure on this site since the 13th century. The building we see today dates back to the 14th century and was not completed until the 17th century. Among other setbacks, a 16th-century fire and a 17th-century gunpowder explosion contributed to the interminable construction phase.

The organ is still used weekly

The 19th-century organ has 3,000 pipes and was built by Jonathan Bätz, a famous organ maker from Utrecht.

William of Orange

William’s dog lies at his feet

The main attraction here is William the Silent’s extravagant marble mausoleum. It shows two effigies, one seated and the other recumbent on his deathbed with his loyal dog at his feet. As legend goes, the dog refused to eat or drink after William’s death.

Detailed stain-glass windows depict historical moments

Art Deco stained glass windows depicting the House of Orange and various biblical themes are from the 20th century. The original ones were destroyed in the disasters.

In addition to William, five other royal family members are buried here.

Markt 80