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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World Press Photo 2026 exhibition at New Church
Mokum, biography of Jewish Amsterdam in Nieuwe Kerk
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EVENTS

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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25-10-2025 - 06-04-2026

Mokum, biography of Jewish Amsterdam in Nieuwe Kerk

Delve into the rich history through 400 years of Jewish objects and stories.

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Explore four centuries of Jewish life in Mokum, a deep dive into the history and culture of Jewish Amsterdammers. An experience that offers stories of influential figures and contemporary insights.

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Contact

New Church
Dam 12, Amsterdam
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Banner
Amsterdam Magazine 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