De Nieuwe Kerk
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The Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) in Delft is mainly known for its royal crypt. Nearly all the members of the Dutch Royal House are buried in this church. The most famous grave is that of our “Father of the Fatherland”: William of Orange (William the Silent). However, you can also find the grave of law scholar and writer Hugo de Groot in this church.
The church has had to endure much over the years, and the top of its tower and spire has even turned black. The Nieuwe Kerk was built at the end of the 14th century. Roughly 100 years later, a powerful lightning bolt struck the tower. It was rebuilt later, but to a different design. The tower remained unscathed until the end of the 19th century when it was struck by lightning again. This time the tower was rebuilt using sandstone from Bentheim. This type of stone reacts with acid rain and the tower has taken on a steadily blacker hue ever since. The church still stands proud on the market square and hopefully will remain there for many years to come!
Worth knowing: in good weather you can climb the tower and enjoy a beautiful view out over the city!
TIP: buy an entrance ticket here