Grote of Sint-Gertrudiskerk

The Sint-Gertrudiskerk dominates the market square (De Merk) at the heart of Workum. It is the largest late-Gothic church in Friesland, a three-aisled hall church begun in the 15th century and rebuilt in stages through the early 16th century. The interior holds a collection of decorative funeral biers — wooden structures used to carry coffins during burial processions — that draws visitors specifically to see them. There is also a Renaissance choir screen from 1569 and a Baroque pulpit from 1718 carved with five biblical scenes.

The church has had national monument status since 1968. It is open to visitors during the summer months and during services. The tower can sometimes be climbed for views over Workum's stepped gables and the IJsselmeer beyond.

things to do sight
A story
The tower was begun in 1523 but never finished — construction stalled during the turbulent decades when Friesland was passing between Spanish, French, and Dutch control. In 1613, rather than completing the original design, the builders simply put an onion-shaped cupola on top of the stump, giving the tower its characteristic slightly improvised look. It has been there ever since.