Shocking images circulated in the capital during New Year’s Eve as the partially wooden Vondelkerk went up in flames. The last New Year’s Eve on which fireworks were still permitted ended in a massive fire. The tower, parts of the nave, and the roof of the 150-year-old Vondelkerk in Amsterdam caught fire and eventually collapsed. By the morning of January 1, the fire department had the fire under control; fortunately, no one was injured.
A massive fire in the heart of Amsterdam
Just a few hours after midnight, flames engulfed the Vondelkerk—a well-known landmark near Vondelpark since 1872. The fire broke out as Amsterdammers celebrated the last New Year’s Eve with private fireworks before the upcoming ban. The fire quickly spread through the wooden tower, causing the building to collapse. Mayor Femke Halsema called it “a very intense and terrible fire.” Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the fire is directly linked to the fireworks.
Fire departments from Amsterdam and surrounding cities fought the flames, with the navy deploying the largest aerial ladder truck in the Netherlands. Strong winds spread sparks, forcing the evacuation of dozens of residents. Firefighters struggled to contain the fire in its early stages, and the partially wooden building was ultimately largely destroyed. Despite the damage, experts confirmed that the exterior walls remain standing, preventing further immediate collapse.
The Vondelkerk — More Than a Religious Building
Photo: iStock
The Vondelkerk served as a Catholic church from 1880 to 1977. After years of neglect and even facing the threat of demolition, the building was renovated and preserved. Since then, it has been rented out for events and is still occasionally used by church groups. The building was known for its large stained-glass windows and unique atmosphere, making it a beloved venue for concerts and weddings.
Local residents are devastated by the loss of their beloved neighborhood landmark. Pierre Cuypers, the architect’s great-grandson, is already looking ahead to potential plans for its reconstruction.
