Lawrence Church (Laurenskerk) Rotterdam


Description

Rotterdams oldest building

The St. Laurenskerk is the great Church of Rotterdam and the only relic in Rotterdam from the middle ages. The church was built between 1449 and 1525 and is the oldest building in Rotterdam. It's one of a few buildings that survived the Blitz in Rotterdam during WWII. The Laurenskerk classic design is in sharp contrast with the hyper modern post war architecture in Rotterdam.

Rebuilt after 2nd world war

Originally the church was Roman Catholic, but during the Protestant Reformation in 1572 the Laurenskerk Church was transformed into a Protestant church. During the WWII bombings on Rotterdam, the Laurenskerk was practically destroyed but it was thoroughly rebuilt. After the reconstruction the church became an open church and nowadays the church is a multipurpose building for concerts, lectures, expositions, parties and church services.

Great view from the top

Within the church you can see a mausoleum for Dutch sea heroes, beautiful bronze doors designed by the famous Italian sculptor Giacomo Manzu, lovely chandeliers and four organs. The main organ with 7600 pipes is the biggest organ of the Netherlands and one of the biggest mechanical organs in the world! You can simply visit the Laurenskerk church, join a guided tour or be sporty and climb the 65 meters high tower. From the top you will be rewarded with a magnificent view on Rotterdam!

Erasmus statue

In front of the St Laurenskerk you can see the statue of Erasmus, which is the oldest bronze statue in the Netherlands. The statue of Desiderius Erasmus Roterodamus was built in 1622. Erasmus was a Dutch 15th century humanist and theologian who was born in Rotterdam around 1466. Today many buildings in Rotterdam are named after him, such as the Erasmus Bridge, the Erasmus University and the Erasmus Metro line. You can even find a copy of this statue at the Erasmus High School in New York.


Explore Rotterdam

Discover the best attractions, have a look at the prettiest sights, visit some interesting museums and have fun at the best shopping areas in Rotterdam!

Read more

 

Public transport in and around in Rotterdam made easy with the travel chip card.

 

hotel in rotterdam

Book a hotel in Rotterdam and stay overnight with lowest price guarantee!

 

Adverteren City Guide Rotterdam

Advertise on City Guide Rotterdam and reach everyone with an interest in Rotterdam!

 

Follow City Guide Rotterdam and stay informed about all events and activities in Rotterdam!

You May Also Like

Explore what else Rotterdam has got to offer!

The Park

You can relax and enjoy the beautiful, green nature in this big park next to the Euromast!

Flag Parade

See 230 flags from nations all over the world in this cheerful flag parade!

Lake Kralingen

Swimming, sailing, walking or relaxing in Rotterdam's main recreational area!

Wilhelmina Pier

Rotterdam's new centre of modern architecture with a lot of skyscrapers, museums, restaurants and the cruise ship terminal.

Railway Station

This is the Best Place to Visit.

City Hall

The city hall of Rotterdam is a monument and one of a few buildings that survived the 2nd world war.