Built between the 1449 and 1525, the Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk, or the Church of Saint Lawrence, represents the lone remaining survivor of the medieval city of Rotterdam. An imposing icon standing in stark contrast to the more modern post-war architecture in Rotterdam, the Church is a fine testament to late Gothic architecture.

Initially built as a Roman Catholic church, the Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk was transformed into a Protestant one after the Protestant Reformation swept through Europe and is still currently so. This magnificent Church was badly damaged during the Rotterdam Blitz in 1941 but was restored by authorities soon after. Now, the church is open to everyone and also features as a multipurpose building for concerts, lectures, parties and of course, church ceremonies.

Upon entering the Church, visitors will be greeted by its absolutely stunning bronze doors, with its intricate designs sure to amaze you. Be sure to catch the largest organ, with a total of 7,600 pipes, in the whole of the Netherlands! Of course, if you aren’t acrophobic (in other words, afraid of heights), be sure to climb the 65-metre high tower for a panoramic view of the Rotterdam skyline. As such, the Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk definitely poses as a must-visit site for visitors!