Zoran Jovanovic
Google
Founded in 1254, the cathedral was originally built as a Roman Catholic church and dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours, a popular saint in Europe during the Middle Ages.
It was constructed on the site of an older church dating back to around 630 AD, showing Utrecht's long ecclesiastical history.
Gothic Architecture
The cathedral was built in French Gothic style, inspired by great cathedrals like those in Amiens and Reims.
At its peak, it was the largest church in the Netherlands.
The Dom Tower (Domtoren), completed in 1382, stands at 112.5 meters (369 ft) and is the tallest church tower in the Netherlands.
The Storm of 1674
In 1674, a massive tornado struck Utrecht and caused the nave (central part) of the cathedral to collapse.
The nave was never rebuilt, which is why today, the Dom Tower stands apart from the main church building—something that surprises many visitors.
From Catholic to Protestant
After the Reformation, the cathedral became a Protestant church in the 16th century.
Much of the Catholic interior was removed or destroyed, including altars and statues.
Burial Site
Several bishops of Utrecht and noble figures are buried in the church.
There is also a crypt beneath the choir of the cathedral that is occasionally open to the public.
The Dom Church has a rich organ and choral tradition and regularly hosts concerts. Its Baroque organ, built in 1831, is renowned for its sound and design.