Sint Janskerk

Sint Janskerk is the large historic church in Gouda, South Holland, noted for its extensive collection of historic stained-glass windows dating mainly from the 16th and 17th centuries. It is one of the town’s principal heritage monuments.

The building’s primary highlight is its set of stained-glass windows - 72 individual panels that line the nave and choir and depict biblical scenes, donors, and civic themes. These windows are the church’s main draw for visitors and art-historical study.

Construction of the present Gothic hall church dates to the late medieval period, with most glazing commissioned and installed in the 1500s and later conserved through successive centuries. The church played a central role in Gouda’s civic and religious life and retains significant historic fabric.

Sint Janskerk sits on the eastern side of Gouda’s central Markt square in the centre of the town, within walking distance of other historic buildings and museums.

• Windows: Most windows date from the 1500s and 1600s and together form the most extensive historic stained-glass ensemble in the Netherlands.
• Location in Gouda: Located directly on Gouda's Markt square, the church is immediately adjacent to the town's historic market and city centre.

What to See #

• Stained-glass windows: Seventy-two stained-glass panels from the 16th and 17th centuries are set along the nave and choir and form the church's primary artistic feature.
• Choir: The Gothic choir contains many of the oldest windows and memorials and forms the east end of the hall church.