Groote Kerk
The Groote Kerk is a church in Maassluis that was built between 1629 and 1639. Among other things, the church is known for its Garrels organ. The Groote Kerk was named as such because Maassluis already had a smaller church built around the year 1500, which closed after the Groote Kerk opened.
The church stands on the Kerkeiland, where half a century earlier an entrenchment had been erected to defend against the Spanish troops. By 1624, the war was long over and people had decided to demolish the entrenchment because a new church had to be built on that site. Construction began in 1629, paid for by an extra tax on fish that had been brought in. Construction was delayed considerably as Dunkirk privateers sunk the Maassluis fishing vessels.
On 9 October 1639,…
The Groote Kerk is a church in Maassluis that was built between 1629 and 1639. Among other things, the church is known for its Garrels organ. The Groote Kerk was named as such because Maassluis already had a smaller church built around the year 1500, which closed after the Groote Kerk opened.
The church stands on the Kerkeiland, where half a century earlier an entrenchment had been erected to defend against the Spanish troops. By 1624, the war was long over and people had decided to demolish the entrenchment because a new church had to be built on that site. Construction began in 1629, paid for by an extra tax on fish that had been brought in. Construction was delayed considerably as Dunkirk privateers sunk the Maassluis fishing vessels.
On 9 October 1639, pastor Johannes Fenacolius (Vennekool or Venkel) was able to consecrate the Groote Kerk. He was the same person who had successfully fought for the independence of Maassluis in 1614. Court pensionary Johan van Oldenbarnevelt personally signed the official Act of Separation.
Visiting the Groote Kerk outside opening hours is also possible. To do this, please contact Mr Piet Bouterse on 06 510 99 422 or grootekerk@histvermaassluis.nl.
Climbing the tower of the Groote Kerk is also a really special experience. This can be done by prior arrangement and is well worth the effort! After all, you get a great view of the historic city centre of Maassluis from the tower.