Advertisement
Der Aa-Kerk, a church that combines the heaviness of the Middle Ages with the vitality of the contemporary world, is far more than a religious building. It can be a concert hall, an art space, a history classroom, or even the best viewing platform in the city. If you think this is just "another old church", you are wrong! Today, we will share 3 different ways to play, and take you to unlock the diverse charm of Der Aa-Kerk - whether you are a history enthusiast, a literary youth, or a traveler who just wants to find a quiet corner to daze, there is a way to open it for you.
Advertisement
(Suitable for: history lovers | Recommended time: daytime)
Advertisement
The "past and present" of the church
Der Aa-Kerk was built in the 13th century and its name comes from the Aa River that flows through Groningen. It was once a Catholic church and later became a Protestant place during the Reformation. The most legendary thing is that in 1945, the Nazis blew up the bell tower and smashed through the church roof when they retreated, but the main body of the building survived miraculously - the bullet marks of that year can still be seen on the walls.
Must-see details
The tilted bell tower: Due to the settlement of the foundation, the tower is slightly tilted, and the locals jokingly call it "Groningen's Little Leaning Tower of Pisa".
17th-century organ: One of the oldest organs in the Netherlands, if you encounter a performance day, you must stop and listen.
Stained windows and tombstones: The ground is inlaid with tombstones of 16th-century merchants, and the stained windows depict biblical stories and city history.
Local tips
Free admission! But donations of €2-€5 can support the maintenance of the church.
Free guided tours (Dutch/English) every Tuesday afternoon reveal little-known war stories.
(Suitable for: artistic youth | Recommended time: evening)
Advertisement
When Gothic architecture meets modern sound waves
The acoustics of Der Aa-Kerk are the best in Groningen, and the towering dome makes every note reverberate. It is now the exclusive venue for the Noorderzon Art Festival and the Eurosonic Music Festival. From classical music to electronic experimental music, the performance schedule is full all year round.
Private experience
Sunset Jazz Night: impromptu jazz performances every Thursday in summer, the sun shines on the audience's shoulders through the colored windows, magical and romantic.
"Silent Disco": Participants dance with headphones, and the crowds are silently carnival from the outside, full of contrast!
How to participate?
Check the performance schedule on the official website in advance, and book early for popular activities.
Student discount: Most performance tickets are €15-€25, and student prices are often half off.
(Suitable for: photography enthusiasts | Recommended time: sunny evening)
Why climb the tower?
There are few high buildings in Groningen, and the 76-meter bell tower of Der Aa-Kerk is one of the few historical buildings open to the top. After climbing 200 steps, you will see:
The red brick old town spreads out like Lego blocks;
The Martini Tower (another landmark of the city) and Der Aa-Kerk in the distance form a "twin tower confrontation";
At sunset, the whole city is dyed with golden pink, and the sound of wind chimes drifts with the wind.
Photography guide
Wide-angle lens: capture the layered sense of the church spire and the panoramic view of the city.
Telephoto lens: Aim at the Martini Tower to take a composition of "Double Tower Dialogue".
Notes
Climbing the tower costs €5, open only in summer (April-October), and reservations are required (official website or on-site ticket purchase).
The stairs are narrow and steep, not suitable for people with a fear of heights or mobility difficulties.
Church Square Market: There is an organic farm stall every Saturday. Buy an apple pie and eat it on the steps.
"Underground Bar": There is a jazz bar Drie Gezusters hidden next to the church. Go for a Belgian beer after the show.
Cycling route: Ride along the Aa River to Noorderplantsoen Park, and you will reach the picnic spot in 10 minutes.
No matter how you explore it, please slow down. Try to sit on a bench for a while, listen to the wind blowing over the stone wall, or chat with the neighbors walking their dogs. After all, the most moving "exhibit" of this church may be the free and lazy life of Groningen people.