The Great Church of Saint Nicholas is a late Gothic hall church that dominates Edam's skyline. Construction began in the 15th century and the nave was expanded several times as the town grew prosperous on the cheese and butter trade. The result is a luminous, high-ceilinged interior that feels far grander than you'd expect in a town this size.
The stained glass is the main draw. Thirty-two windows survive from the 17th century, depicting biblical scenes surrounded by heraldry and donor portraits. The oldest dates to 1604. The light through them on a clear morning turns the white interior amber and gold. The church is open to visitors most days in summer; check the notice board for organ recitals, which are worth catching if you're in town on the right day.