The Singel in Amsterdam (black and white) by Jeroen de Jongh Photography

About "The Singel in Amsterdam (black and white)"

by Jeroen de Jongh Photography

About the artwork

Amsterdam's Singel is one of the city's oldest and most important canals. It was originally built as a defensive moat and marked the outer boundary of the city until the end of the 16th century.

With the expansion of the city during the Golden Age, the Singel lost its function as a city boundary, as new canals such as the Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht were built outside the Singel. The Singel then became one of the inner canals of the city. Today, the Singel lies within the famous Grachtengordel and has mainly a historical and tourist function.

De Krijtberg is a Roman Catholic church in Amsterdam. Located on the Singel, this church stands out for its neo-Gothic architecture, especially the tall, slender spires that are prominent in the cityscape.

De Krijtberg has its roots in the 17th century, during a time when Catholicism was forbidden in the Netherlands after the Reformation. Catholics could only practice their faith in secret in so-called hideaway churches. In 1654, a hidden church was built where the Krijtberg now stands. The current Krijtberg was built between 1881 and 1883.

The Krijtberg is a beautiful example of the neo-Gothic style, with characteristic elements such as high arches, pointed arch windows and richly decorated interiors. The two towers at the front of the church rise high above the surrounding buildings. Inside the church you will find many stained-glass windows and richly decorated altars, making the atmosphere very impressive.