St Bavo Protestant Church

The St Bavo dominates the skyline The southern facade

This late gothic basilica has been the symbol of Haarlem since the 13th century and dominates the city skyline from its prime position on the historic main square.

Originally a Catholic cathedral, it was taken over by the Protestants in the late 16th century during the Reformation and is still in active use today by the Dutch Reformed Church. It is unusual in having two official names in Dutch: 'De Grote of Sint Bavokerk' (the Great or St Bavo Church). The locals usually call it 'De Grote Kerk' to distinguish it from the other St Bavo in Haarlem, the Catholic cathedral.

Built of brick and sandstone, it rises to an 80m steeple which can occasionally be visited and affords a stupendous view of the city. It is named for a Dark Ages Belgian saint, said to have saved Haarlem by appearing in the clouds to frighten off an attacking tribe. The church has been painted by famous Dutch artists such as Vermeer - and Frans Hals, who lies buried beneath it. Mendelssohn, Schubert, Liszt, Handel and Mozart have played on its famous Muller organ, installed in the early 18th century and still a draw for classical and church musicians worldwide.