10 things to do in St. Martin's Cathedral Utrecht Netherlands
St. Martin's Cathedral in Utrecht, Netherlands is a stunning and majestic structure that has been standing for more than 800 years. Built in the 12th century, this Gothic cathedral is the largest and most important religious building in the Netherlands, and one of the oldest and most beautiful churches in the world. With its towering spires, soaring ceilings, and intricate stained glass windows, St. Martin's Cathedral is a must-see destination for any traveler. Here are 10 things to do when visiting this incredible landmark:
1. Take a Tour: St. Martin's Cathedral offers guided tours that allow visitors to explore the interior of the cathedral and learn about its history and architecture. The tour takes visitors through the various chapels, naves, and crypts, and provides an in-depth look at the art and artifacts housed within the cathedral.
2. Attend Sunday Mass: Every Sunday, St. Martin's Cathedral hosts a Mass service that is open to the public. The Mass is held in the main cathedral, and visitors can take part in the service and experience the beauty of the cathedral first-hand.
3. Climb the Tower: St. Martin's Cathedral has a bell tower that is open to the public. Climbing the tower is a popular activity for visitors, and the views of the city and surrounding area from the top are spectacular.
4. Explore the Crypt: The crypt beneath St. Martin's Cathedral is one of the most fascinating parts of the building. The crypt houses the remains of several important figures in Dutch history, and visitors can explore the crypt and learn about its history.
5. Visit the Chapel of St. Nicholas: Located in the north transept of the cathedral, the Chapel of St. Nicholas is one of the most beautiful chapels in the cathedral. The chapel is dedicated to St. Nicholas, the patron saint of children, and features stunning stained glass windows and intricate wood carvings.
6. See the Organ: St. Martin's Cathedral is home to one of the largest pipe organs in the world. The organ is located in the south transept of the cathedral, and visitors can admire the organ and listen to its beautiful music.
7. Attend a Concert: St. Martin's Cathedral hosts a variety of concerts throughout the year, featuring classical music, choirs, and other performances. These concerts are held in the main cathedral, and visitors can enjoy the beautiful music in the stunning setting of the cathedral.
8. Admire the Artwork: St. Martin's Cathedral is home to a variety of beautiful artwork, including sculptures, paintings, and stained glass windows. Visitors can take their time to admire the artwork and appreciate the beauty of the cathedral.
9. Visit the Gift Shop: The gift shop at St. Martin's Cathedral is a great place to find souvenirs and unique gifts. The shop offers a variety of items, including books, jewelry, and other items related to the cathedral.
10. Enjoy a Meal: St. Martin's Cathedral has a restaurant located in the basement of the building. The restaurant serves a variety of traditional Dutch dishes, and visitors can enjoy a meal in the unique setting of the cathedral.
Visiting St. Martin's Cathedral in Utrecht is an unforgettable experience. With its stunning architecture, fascinating history, and beautiful artwork, the cathedral is an awe-inspiring sight that should not be missed. Whether you are looking to take a tour, attend a service, or simply admire the beauty of the cathedral, St. Martin's Cathedral is a must-see destination for any traveler.