St. Eusebius Church (Arnhem)
Gelderland
St. Eusebius Church, also known locally as the Eusebiuskerk or Grote Kerk, stands as Arnhem's largest and most prominent church, reaching 93 meters in height. Originally built on the site of an earlier church dedicated to St. Martinus, the current late Gothic structure was initiated in 1452 after relics of St. Eusebius arrived in the city. The church suffered devastating damage during World War II, particularly in the 1944 Battle of Arnhem, when it was burnt out and its tower collapsed. Post-war restoration between 1946 and 1961, led by architect Berend Tobia Boeyinga, restored the church as a symbol of Arnhem's resilience. Today, the church features a modern elevator installed in 1994 allowing visitors to ascend the spire for expansive 360-degree views of Arnhem. The crypt contains ancient human remains displayed in dimly lit chambers, adding a unique historical dimension. The church also hosts occasional religious services and commemorates the bravery of Allied paratroopers during Operation Market Garden.
Plan your trip to Netherlands with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visit during spring or early autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues, especially for the elevator access to the spire. Discounts are often available for seniors, students, and groups. Plan your visit to include the crypt tour and the observation balconies at 59 and 62 meters for spectacular city views.
Interesting facts
- •The church's spire is the tallest building in Arnhem at 93 meters.
- •An elevator installed in 1994 allows visitors to ascend the tower, a rare feature in historic churches.
- •The crypt contains ancient human skeletons displayed in their burial state, accessible to visitors.
- •The church was a central landmark during the Battle of Arnhem in 1944 and commemorates Allied paratroopers.
- •Since 2018, two glass observation balconies at 59 and 62 meters offer panoramic views of the city.
History
The current St.
Eusebius Church was built starting in 1452, replacing an earlier church dedicated to St.
Martinus, after relics of St.
Eusebius arrived in Arnhem.
The church was completed over a century, with Duke Charles of Egmond as a key patron.
It became Protestant following the Reformation in 1578-1579, leading to the removal of Catholic iconography.
In 1633, a lightning strike caused a fire damaging the tower, which was subsequently rebuilt higher by architect Herman Breckerveld, completing in 1650.
The church suffered near-total destruction during the 1944 Battle of Arnhem in WWII, with the tower collapsing after the fire.
It was extensively restored from 1946 to 1961, symbolizing Arnhem's post-war recovery.
Place Guide
Main Church Hall15th century
The three-aisled cruciform basilica measuring 79 meters in length and 29 meters in width, showcasing impressive late Gothic architecture and the restored interior post-WWII.
Spire Observation Decks2018 (balconies), 1994 (elevator)
Two glass balconies at 59 and 62 meters height provide 360-degree panoramic views of Arnhem, accessible via an elevator installed in 1994 and a final staircase climb.
Crypt
Dimly lit crypt beneath the church housing ancient human skeletons in their burial state, some behind bars reminiscent of old jail cells, offering a unique glimpse into the church's long history.
Main Organ
A prominent and fully functional church organ located within the main hall, contributing to the church's cultural and musical heritage.
Tomb of Duke Charles of Egmond16th century
The elaborate tomb of Charles of Egmond, a key historical patron and ruler of the region, located in the choir area of the church.
Contact
Phone: 026 443 5068
