De Nicolaï: religion in Appingedam
Since the 13th century, the people of Appingedam (or affectionately know as Damsters) have been building the Nicolaï. This impressive church changed over time and is the heart of the city. Appingedam is home to the oldest Moluccan community in the Netherlands. Experience the Damster religion in all its forms.
Where can you find our remarkable churches?
The Nicolaïkerk, Wijkstraat 32, right in the center. The Synagogue is located at Broerstraat 6. The Moluccan church is located at Harkenrothstraat 2. The Reformed Church is located on the Dijkstraat. And the Church Nicolaas on the Solwerderstraat.
1744
The Nicolaïkerk is listed in the top 100 Dutch UNESCO monuments. The building history of centuries is clearly visible inside and out. The Hinsz organ dates back to 1744 and is still played during all kinds of activities. In the Lady's Chapel in the Nicolaïkerk there is an Archaeological Information Point 'Oost-Fivelingo'. There you will find information about the church and the historic surroundings of Appingedam.
1801
At the end of the 16th century, the first Jews settled in Appingedam. They held their meetings in various house synagogues, until this synagogue was consecrated in 1801. The rectangular building with round-arched windows is fairly inconspicuous. The most striking part of the synagogue is the window above the door that features a text from the Bible book of Ezekiel. The monument in front of the synagogue commemorates the 78 Jewish inhabitants who died during World War II.