Old Church

Another iconic church of Delft, the Gothic Old Church, is nearly 800 years old and a piece of architectural beauty. Apart from its pulpit and a collection of stained glass windows, it is known for its tilted tower, three massive pipe organs, and the enormous church bell weighing 9 tonnes.

The 75 metre tall tower of the Oude Kerk is something you will not miss, not in a million years. But what's even more intriguing about it is the fact that the tower leans by a little under 2 metres. The reason for this is believed to be the nearby canal that was shifted to make the room for the tower, making for a weak foundation. In fact, the tower began to lean during the construction itself, and efforts were put in to make it upright as the layers were added. Details and features were added to the church as the centuries went by. While the building itself was completed in 1240, the beautiful sculped pulpit was added in 1548, and the collection of stained glass windows is enchanting. The church is home to the tomb of famous Delft painter, Johannes Vermeer, and also naval admirals Piet Hein and Maarten Tromp.