A church with character and history
The current Sint Jan dates from 1925: construction began in 1923 under the direction of architect Hendrik Willem Valk, inspired by Byzantine and early Christian architecture he saw during his travels.
The interior amazes tremendously, its oriental atmosphere, domes, special details and organ make the church not only a house of worship, but also an artistically and historically rich interior.
Visit the church
The Sint Jan is open to the public five afternoons a week: from Wednesday to Sunday, between 1:30 and 4:30 pm.
Admission is free; those who wish can take an audio tour (for a small fee) or book a guided tour with a group to discover its rich history and hidden details.
Even outside regular opening hours, the Lady Chapel is accessible daily for quiet contemplation or lighting a candle.
The Sint Jan is part of the Grootste Museum van Nederland, a select company of iconic Dutch churches that open their doors to everyone.
Regular concerts, lectures, exhibitions and tours take place that make the church a lively meeting place.
Why a visit is worthwhile
The Sint Jan de Doper in Waalwijk immediately stands out for its unique architecture: neo-Byzantine inspired and visually imposing, both outside and inside. Visitors are drawn to its magnificent domes, elegant tower and rich interior, which invites admiration and discovery. In addition to its architecture, St. John's offers a cultural experience that ranges from music, art and history, making every visit a special experience. The church's volunteers are happy to welcome you to tell interesting stories about the history of this special church.
Moreover, the church is located in the heart of the Langstraat, making it easy to combine a visit with a city walk, a day of shopping or a nice lunch or dinner in Waalwijk, or the towns around.
Want to read more about Sint Jan de Doper? Then read on in our blog!
Pearl of De Langstraat: St. John the Baptist Church
Part of the Wet Blue route
At the end of 2024, the new blue lighting of St. John the Baptist Church in Waalwijk was officially unveiled by Alderman Timon Klerx. This special lighting is part of the Wet Blue route, in which the iconic church tower now shines in the characteristic blue color.
The color wet blue stems from the leather history of Waalwijk. Hides of animals were treated with chromium salts which gave the hides the unique color blue, and from which the term 'wet blue' originates. The route carries an ode to Waalwijk's past in the leather and shoe industry and provides explanations at various buildings or the city's role in leather production. In modern industry, chromium salts are no longer used in leather production.
The initiative to illuminate the tower of the church with blue light shows the community's connection and dedication to presenting cultural and historical heritage in innovative ways.
View the Wet Blue route
Cycling around Sint Jan de Doper
Active
Did you know you can also bike around Sint Jan de Doper? Together with Sint Jan de Doper we have put together 4 bicycle routes: Cycling Route Sint Jan de Doper North, East, South and West. Through the battleground between land and water, Brabant and Holland, Catholics and Protestants, occupiers and liberators, clay and sand, nature and culture. Enjoy the hospitable and burgundian Brabant and discover the region around this beautiful church.
