Dedicated to Saint Peter, Pieterskerk is a late-Gothic church that has been around since the 1100s. While it was originally a chapel for the Counts of Holland, it became a parish church in 1268 for the growing population. The construction of the present-day building began in 1390, and took a whopping 180 years or so to build! The church originally had a church tower that was nicknamed “Coningh der Zee” (King of the Sea), reaching 110m before its collapse in the 14th century.

The cross-basilica gives the impression that the church was built in the shape of a cross, and its brick walls boast Flemish Gothic architecture. Many noteworthy individuals are buried here, including the beloved professor, Herman Boerhaave and renowned painter Jan Steen. You can admire the memorial to John Robinson located in the far corner opposite the entrance to the transept and look up to see stained-glass windows, although they are not the originals. The original pipes on the Van Hagerbeer organ will certainly awe you, and they are of 1448 vintage. Watch where you’re going because the captivating vaulted ceilings will hold your attention. The church has been deconsecrated and is now a venue for events.