Domkerk

open: 10:00 - 17:00

In 1254, the foundation stone was laid for the Gothic Dom Church, which was to replace the existing Romanesque church. The Dom Church functioned as the cathedral and was thus the most important church of the large Diocese of Utrecht. Consequently, no expense was spared for the construction of the church and a tall tower. Work on the church continued for over 260 years, until the funds finally ran out in the early 16th century.

In 1674, the church was severely damaged when a major storm raged over Utrecht. The nave of the church collapsed, creating a large gap between the choir and the transept on one side and the Dom Tower (1320-1382) on the other. A void that still exists today and has contributed to the fame and uniqueness of the church and the tower. Various significant events, including the Iconoclasm of 1580 and the storm of 1674, have left their mark. These traces, the history, the Gothic architecture, and the interior make the Cathedral an impressive whole.

Read all about the history and the church

Points of interest