A towering spire pierces the Amstelveen sky. This is the Sint-Urbanuskerk. Its imposing presence speaks volumes of history. The Sint-Urbanuskerk wasn’t always this grand. It stands on the site of a previous church a testament to the enduring faith of the community.
Designed by the renowned architect Pierre Cuypers construction began in 1875. Thirteen years later in 1888 the Sint-Urbanuskerk was consecrated. Cuypers a master of his craft ingeniously incorporated the church into the existing landscape. The unique hexagonal tower allowed the entrance to align with the Noorddammerlaan while the nave followed the Legmeerdijk axis. This unconventional orientation showcases Cuypers’ brilliance. The tower bears a striking resemblance to the tower of the Sint-Bonifatiuskerk in Leeuwarden another Cuypers masterpiece.
The Sint-Urbanuskerk served the Urbanus parish. This parish served Bovenkerk and the Westwijk district of Amstelveen. In 2014 it merged with the RK Parochie Amstelland. The church’s imposing 65-meter-high tower isn’t just aesthetically pleasing. It serves as a crucial visual navigation aid for Schiphol-Oost airport. Pilots use the tower as a reporting point designated “BRAVO”. It’s a unique blend of faith and flight.
Sadly the Sint-Urbanuskerk suffered a devastating fire in September 2018. Only the tower survived. However the community rallied. The church was rebuilt and reopened in 2023. The interior now incorporates elements from the Sint-Werenfriduskerk in Workum. This thoughtful incorporation preserves a piece of history while rebuilding a beloved landmark.
The Sint-Urbanuskerk’s story isn’t merely about bricks and mortar. It’s about faith resilience and the enduring spirit of a community. It’s a story woven into the very fabric of Amstelveen a testament to the past and a beacon for the future. A true symbol of the people of Amstelveen. This is the Sint-Urbanuskerk a place of worship and a landmark for all.