Culture

Culture

The New Church: 15th century historic church on Dam Square

The New Church, built around 1400, is a landmark structure on Dam Square that once served as a parish church. Today, the building functions as an exhibition space and venue for cultural events, with a rich history of royal ceremonies. This combination of old and new makes it a lively place in the city center.

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The New Church was originally built as a parish church to meet the needs of a growing population. Located next to the Royal Palace on Dam Square, the church is best known for its 15th-century Gothic architecture. Although no longer used as a church in the traditional sense, the building does play an important role in the city's cultural atmosphere.

Since 1979, the church has been owned by the National Foundation The New Church. This foundation was established to preserve and manage the building, primarily as an exhibition space and a venue for national meetings and events. The church is funded without government support, which contributes to the independent nature of its cultural program.

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The space inside the church is regularly used for major exhibitions, including the annual World Press Photo exhibition. And the "Discover The New Church" exhibition that gives visitors insight into the history and significance of the building.

The historic atmosphere, combined with contemporary art and photography, creates a unique experience. Ongoing restorations ensure that the church remains in good condition while providing a platform for current cultural expressions. Thus, The New Church remains an important part of cultural life in the city center.


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New Church
Dam 12, Amsterdam
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Queer Amsterdam, the pink city as a stage for love and freedom
World Press Photo 2026 exhibition at New Church
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EVENTS

09-07-2026 - 04-04-2027

Queer Amsterdam, the pink city as a stage for love and freedom

The rich history of Amsterdam's queer community on display in Nieuwe Kerk

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The exhibition Queer Amsterdam, The Pink City in the Nieuwe Kerk takes visitors through iconic moments that have put the city on the international map as a free port for love and identity. From the founding of the COC in 1946 and the unveiling of the Gay Monument in 1987 to the first Canal Parade in 1996, ...

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24-04-2026 - 27-09-2026

World Press Photo 2026 exhibition at New Church

World premiere and exhibition of the annual international press photo contest

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The world premiere of World Press Photo 2026, the major annual international press photo contest, traditionally takes place in The New Church. You can see all 150-plus award-winning images and videos again in the church on Dam Square from April 24 through September 27, including the stunning World Press Photo of the Year and the ...

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In the neighbouhood

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Amsterdam Center

Amsterdam Centrum: canals, museums and the heart of the city Amsterdam Now is the amsterdam city guide to all there is to do, eat and experience in Amsterdam Centrum - the city's oldest and most densely built-up district. Centrum includes the canal belt, the Jordaan, the 9 Streets,...

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Contact

New Church
Dam 12, Amsterdam
Navigate
Banner
Amsterdam NOW is about fun things to do, discovering new places and the tastemakers of the city. Subscribe now for €16 and receive 4 editions.
Order now on coffee-tablebooks.com