Nieuwe Toren, Kampen

The Nieuwe Toren, or New Tower, stands majestically in the heart of Kampen, a historic town in the Netherlands. This towering structure, with its intricate design and rich history, is a beacon of the city's resilience and architectural brilliance. As you stroll through the charming streets of Kampen, the Nieuwe Toren's impressive silhouette is impossible to miss, drawing visitors in with its grandeur and the promise of fascinating stories from the past.

The History of Nieuwe Toren

The origins of the Nieuwe Toren date back to a time of tragedy and rebirth. The tower was constructed between 1649 and 1663 on the site where the chapel of the Holy Spirit Hospital once stood. This chapel was tragically destroyed in a fire in 1646, leaving a void that would soon be filled by the towering edifice we see today. The construction of the Nieuwe Toren was not without its challenges, facing numerous setbacks and even a complete halt in work between 1655 and 1660. Despite these obstacles, the tower rose from the ashes, a testament to the determination and skill of its builders.

The stone base of the tower was designed by Dirck Jansz, a master carpenter from Edam, while the elegant lantern that crowns the structure was the work of Philips Vingboons. Vingboons originally designed the lantern for the town hall in Amsterdam, now known as the Royal Palace on the Dam, but it was never realized there. Instead, it found its home atop the Nieuwe Toren, adding a touch of Amsterdam's grandeur to Kampen's skyline.

The Carillon

One of the most enchanting features of the Nieuwe Toren is its carillon, a musical instrument consisting of a series of bells. The carillon in the Nieuwe Toren is particularly noteworthy, as it includes 30 bells cast by the renowned bell founder François Hemony between 1659 and 1662. These bells, with their rich and resonant tones, have been delighting the ears of Kampen's residents and visitors for centuries.

The carillon was initially housed in the tower of the town hall, as the Nieuwe Toren was not yet completed. In 1663, the bells were moved to their intended home, where they were joined by additional bass bells, some of which were cast by Hemony himself. The result was a carillon with a deep, sonorous sound that could be heard throughout the town. Over the years, the carillon has undergone several modifications and restorations, including a significant redesign in 1939 by Ferdinand Timmermans, the city carillonneur of Rotterdam.

Today, the carillon consists of 48 bells, including a bass bell added during the restoration of the tower between 2008 and 2011. The carillon is played regularly, with the city carillonneur performing on Monday mornings and Saturday afternoons. During the summer months, visitors can also enjoy concerts by guest carillonneurs on Friday evenings, adding a musical dimension to their exploration of Kampen.

Restoration of the Tower

The Nieuwe Toren has not only survived the ravages of time but has also been lovingly restored to preserve its historical and architectural significance. The most recent restoration, carried out between 2008 and 2011, was a comprehensive project that involved dismantling the tower down to its stone base and rebuilding it with new oak beams. This meticulous restoration ensured that the tower would continue to stand tall for future generations to admire.

During the restoration, the carillon was also given a new lease on life. The bells were re-hung in their original positions, with the large bass bells placed at the top of the lantern, as they were before 1939. This restoration not only preserved the historical integrity of the carillon but also enhanced its musical quality, allowing visitors to experience the same rich tones that have echoed through Kampen for centuries.

Exploring the Nieuwe Toren

Visiting the Nieuwe Toren is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into Kampen's storied past. As you approach the tower, its striking façade, adorned with intricate details and a gleaming clock, captures your attention. Stepping inside, you are greeted by the grandeur of its interior, where you can learn about the tower's history and the challenges faced during its construction.

A highlight of any visit is the opportunity to hear the carillon in action. The automatic play mechanism, which activates every seven and a half minutes, fills the air with beautiful melodies that have been carefully selected by the city carillonneur. These melodies are changed several times a year, ensuring that each visit offers a unique auditory experience.

For those with a love of history and architecture, the Nieuwe Toren is a must-visit destination in Kampen. Its towering presence, rich history, and enchanting carillon make it a symbol of the town's resilience and cultural heritage. As you explore the streets of Kampen, let the bells of the Nieuwe Toren guide you, and immerse yourself in the stories that have shaped this remarkable town.