If you take a stroll around the charming old city center of Delft, you’ll come across the Oude Kerk (Old Church), Holland’s very own leaning tower of Pisa!
The Oude Kerk is a Gothic Protestant church and the oldest in the city. Nicknamed ‘Crooked John’, get ready to take some shots of the characteristic 75-meter tower that leans to its side!
Why does the tower lean? Because the stones used to build it were too heavy for the former canal that it was built on. Quite rightly, the leaning tower caused fear for the locals after its completion in 1325 but has since been stabilised.
If you visit inside the church, you’ll be able to admire an enchanting collection of stained glass windows, three impressive pipe organs, and the enormous church bells weighing a whopping 9 tonnes!
There is also a crypt under the Oude Kerk where many famous historical people are buried including Delft painter Johannes Vermeer. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for concerts organised to enjoy the organ music.
As you explore Delft, admire the church from the beautiful canals, cobbled streets and listen to the bells ring on the hour!
