ST CATHERINES CHURCH

St. Catherine's Church (Sint-Catharinakerk) is a monumental neo-Gothic basilica located in the heart of Eindhoven, Netherlands. The church was built in 1867 on the site of a medieval church dedicated to Saint Catherine of Alexandria. The original 13th-century church, which became a pilgrimage site, was damaged by fire in 1554 and eventually razed before being replaced.

The present-day church is designed by renowned Dutch architect Pierre Cuypers with its twin towers, representing Mary and David, having distinct features. Its grand interior is adorned with intricate stained glass windows. It was built as a tribute to Saint Catherine of Alexandria and serves both as a functioning church and a prominent cultural landmark. The church survived significant damage during World War II and was later restored to its former glory. Today, it is not only a place of worship but also a centre for music and culture, hosting a range of concerts throughout the year. St. Catherine’s Church is an essential visit for anyone interested in Eindhoven’s architectural and spiritual heritage.

Highlights

• Marvel at the stunning neo-Gothic design of St. Catherine's Church which features two iconic and intricately decorated towers designed by famed architect Pierre Cuypers.
• Admire the church’s breathtaking stained-glass windows, which depict religious scenes in vivid detail and fill the interior with colourful light.
• Attend the musical performances hosted at the church and be amazed by the acoustic sound of two historic pipe organs played during the performances.
• Attend concerts organized by the "Muziek in de Catherine" foundation, which hosts regular performances featuring classical and sacred music.
• Explore the church’s rich history and discover how the present-day church built in the 19th century was actually a replacement for a 13th-century structure.

How To Reach

• By Car: The church is located about 3 km from Eindhoven city centre. You can easily hire a cab and reach the church with a 9-minute drive via Hoogstraat.
• By Bus: Take bus number 15 from Eindhoven city centre and get down at Keizersgracht station. Once you get down, you can enjoy a short 2-minute walk, covering 170 metres to reach the church.

Best Time To Visit

St. Catherine’s Church is open throughout the year for both worship and cultural events.

• Best Season: Summer (June-August) offers a pleasant time to explore the church and nearby attractions.
• Best Day: Visiting on weekdays ensures fewer crowds, allowing for a peaceful experience.
• Best Time of Day: Mornings are ideal for visiting, especially if you want to enjoy the natural light filtering through the stained glass windows.

Other Essential Information

• Plan your visit during one of the regular organ concerts for a more immersive experience. You can check the church’s website for special events and temporary closures
• Be sure to wear modest clothes covering sleeves and shoulders to respect the local customs.
• Wear comfortable footwear if you plan to visit the nearby attractions like the Van Abbemuseum and Philips Museum located at a walking distance from the church. 
• Admission to the church is free, but donations are appreciated. 
• Capture beautiful memories as photography is allowed, but be respectful during services.