Maria van Jessekerk — Attraction in Delft

The Maria van Jessekerk is a Gothic Revival Roman Catholic parish church in the city of Delft , in the Dutch province of South Holland . The church was built between 1875 and 1882 and was designed by Evert Margry , a pupil of PJH Cuypers . Originally this church was dedicated to Saint Joseph , but since 1971 to Maria van Jesse . The church is now part of the Saint Ursula parish, which includes all Catholic parish churches in Delft. The church is built in the shape of a cross.

The church was the first Catholic church to be re-established in the city center after the Reformation . The Oude Jan and the Nieuwe Kerk were Catholic before the Reformation, but were reformed afterwards . The two towers of the Maria van Jessekerk refer to the two former Catholic churches; in terms of model they refer to the towers of the Oude Kerk and the Nieuwe Kerk.

The Maria van Jessekerk stands on the spot where the Papenhoek originated during the Reformation , a neighborhood where only Catholics lived. In 1572 the Delft city council opted for Protestantism and other religions such as the Roman Catholic Church, but also the Lutheran and Baptist Church were banned. In practice, however, they were tolerated. The Hippolytuskerk and the Ursulakerk became Protestant and were henceforth called the Old and New Churches. The Delft Catholics gathered in the neighborhood that was bordered by the Burgwal, the Oude Langedijk and the Jacob Gerritstraat. Celebrations were held in hidden churchesin residential houses. From 1677 there is talk of a station dedicated to Saint Joseph and served by Jesuit Fathers.

Schuilkerk (1733) In 1733 , the Jesuits managed to build a small church that was not visible from the street, an important condition for tolerance. This church probably stood on the site of the western transept of the current church, where there was then a courtyard. This church was dedicated to Saint Joseph . Why this saint was chosen is not clear. When the Jesuit order was dissolved in 1773, the Franciscans took over...

Maria van Jessekerk in Delft has a stunning interior that sets it apart from the Oude and Nieuwe Kerk with its distinctly Catholic design. Stepping inside feels like entering a scene from Game of Thrones, thanks to its dramatic arcades, towering brick walls, and impressive height. The brickwork adds a unique charm, making the space even more captivating.

Highly recommended for a nighttime visit, especially during Lichtjesavond when the church is freely open to the public. It can get crowded, but the experience is...

A beautiful Catholic church in the heart of Delft. Built in the late 19th century in Neo-Gothic style, designed by architect Evertsen Margry. Inside you’ll find impressive vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and an especially remarkable organ. This is the main Catholic church of the city, historically connected to the Jesuit order, and it is still active today. The atmosphere is calm and bright — worth visiting not only for the service, but also for its architecture and history. A true...