Most European cities are characterized by a city centre with a church or a cathedral, each with a unique history worth investigating. Enschede is no exception - the Grote Kerk, located at the old market - is arguably the most famous landmark of this Dutch border city.
The origin of the Grote Kerk, a reformed church, dates back to around 1200 AD, when it was constructed as a Romanesque church. Throughout its 800-year old history, it was subjected to several reconstructions as well as restorations. The first major reconstruction was in the year 1480, when the church was enlarged southwards and eastwards. Later, in the year 1842, it was rebuilt as an aisle-less church. This effort was virtually in vain, as the church had to be reconstructed again in the year 1862, as a result of destruction by fire. Incidentally, this was not the only time Enschede was partly or completely destroyed by fire.
Several other major fire accidents have devastated this city at different times, the most recent of which is the Vuurwerkramp, otherwise known as the fireworks disaster, which rocked the city in the year 2000.
A vertical sundial was mounted in 1836 on the exterior of the southern wall. In 1892, the impressive Lambertus van Dam pipe organ with 39 registers was installed. In order to counter the ill-effects of aging, the church was recently subjected to restoration. This latest refurbishment gives a new lease of life to one of the oldest churches in the Netherlands.
Since 1995, the Grote Kerk is the third music stage of the Podium Twente, a provider of concerts and performances. The church continues to host weddings, business diners, and the occasional university graduation party, offering a seating capacity to accommodate 400 guests.
Entrance to the Grote Kerk is free. For information concerning the opening times and excursions, contact Podium Twente at 053-4858566.
