PIETERSKERK LEIDEN EVENTS LOOKBOOK_EN 2026

Since 1574, the annual 3 October Thanksgiving Service has been held in the Pieterskerk.

TABLEOFCONTENTS

ABOUTUS ABOUTUS

Margot Wijtenburg

head sales & events

Britt

Osinga sales & events

Raymond van Ruitenburg

head of heritage & operations

Lagendaal managing director

HISTORY

Whoever says Leiden, says Pieterskerk. For more than 900 years, this imposing monument has formed the heart of the city — a silent witness to rebellion, science, and renewal. What once began as a modest chapel evolved into a Gothic icon rich in stories. From 1390 onwards, construction began on a church that reflected not only devotion to God, but also the growing ambitions of the city.

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In the turbulent 16th century, during the Eighty Years’ War, the Pieterskerk underwent a profound transformation. Catholic grandeur gave way to Protestant sobriety. Statues disappeared, walls were whitewashed, yet the significance endured. It was here that the famous thanksgiving service was held after the Relief of Leiden in 1574 — a historic moment still commemorated each year with herring, white bread, and remembrance.

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het verleden en heden ontmoeten elkaar tussen de eeuwenoude muren.

“The past and present meet within these centuries-old walls.”

The monumental stone slab floor has welcomed an extraordinary company. From medical pioneer Herman Boerhaave to the Pilgrims who would later colonise America — their stories continue to live on in the heart of Leiden. Visitors from all over the world enter the Pieterskerk every day to experience how history still breathes within these walls.

Since 1976, the Pieterskerk has no longer functioned as a church, yet the building is more alive than ever. Concerts, lectures, corporate events, and even university doctoral ceremonies take place here: the past and present meet within its centuries-old walls. The church has become a cultural anchor no longer sacred, yet still profoundly inspiring.

EVENTS EVENTS

MEETINGS

Meeting in the Pieterskerk is more than a business appointment it is an experience. Within this centuries-old church, once frequented by great minds such as Rembrandt and Boerhaave, the plans of tomorrow are shaped today. Whether you choose an intimate gathering in the exclusive Churchwardens’ Room, with its historic charm and private atmosphere, or a large-scale setting in the church’s impressive Choir, the Pieterskerk offers a unique backdrop where inspiration naturally flourishes.

Standard technical facilities:

LCD presentation screen with casting capability

Projection screen with projector

Flip chart

Catering options:

Coffee & tea service

Beverage package

Extensive lunch provided by one of our catering partners

DINNERS & DINNERS & CELEBRATIONS CELEBRATIONS

EXPERIENCES

From an intimate candlelit dinner to a vibrant celebration beneath the monumental vaults of the centuries-old Nave, the Pieterskerk Leiden offers an exceptional setting for meaningful moments. Here, where centuries of history converge, space is created for experiences that resonate and endure.

Imagine an elegant dinner in the serene Choir, where soft lighting and a refined ambiance foster a sense of calm and connection. Or a gala dinner in the impressive Nave, with beautifully set tables, sophisticated floral design, and flawless execution. And when it is time to celebrate on a grand scale, the church effortlessly transforms into a dynamic event venue, complete with a dance floor, live music, captivating entertainment, and striking lighting design.

Together with our partners in culinary services, décor, technical production, and hospitality, we deliver events down to the finest detail. From concept and coordination to execution, every element is carefully tailored to your wishes, objectives, and the unique atmosphere of the Pieterskerk.

Whether it is a charity evening, anniversary celebration, concert dinner, or a prestigious corporate event, we create a setting that not only honors the occasion but elevates it. At the Pieterskerk Leiden, every moment becomes part of a greater story.

OUR EVENTSPACES EVENTSPACES

cafe pieter entrance

c r o s s i n g & t r a n s e p t s

nave choir

c h u r c h w a r d e n ' s r o o m

VIERING &TRANSEPTEN THE NAVE

At the heart of the Pieterskerk lies an impressive space breathes history and exudes grandeur. The Nave, toget Crossing and Transepts, forms the perfect setting for plenary sessions with seating for up to 1,700 guests. Thanks to its flexible layout, this space offers a distinctive atmosphere for every largescale event.

For culinary occasions, a wide range of options is available. A refined walking dinner can accommodate up to 1,000 guests, with a combination of high tables and seating. For a more formal setting the space allows for a seated dinner for up to 800 guests.

In our Baptistery, we host a permanent Pilgrims exhibition.

During receptions, coffee breaks, or networking moments, the are can welcome as many as 2,000 standing guests, making it ideal fo creating lively encounters within a monumental setting. While a plenary session takes place in the Nave, other programme element can run simultaneously in the surrounding spaces. During dinners, the kitchen is set up in the South Transept, the Choir and/or the Choir Ambulatory.

THE CHOIR

This atmospheric space, more intimate yet no less impressive, is particularly well suited for plenary sessions with seating for up to 240 guests. Its serene ambiance and historic setting makes the Choir a popular choice for lectures, more intimate dinners, and performances where focus and experience take centre stage.

For a seated dinner, the Choir can accommodate up to 160 guests, ensuring an exclusive and memorable experience. A walking dinner is possible for up to 200 guests, allowing guests to enjoy culinary highlights in an informal setting while the rich history of the space comes to life around them.

In addition, the Choir is also ideally suited for a reception or networking event, where up to 250 guests can enjoy an atmospheric gathering in a unique historic setting.

CHURCH WARDEN'S ROOM

Step into a space that breathes history yet is anything but restrained: the Churchwardens’ Room. Built in 1648, this room served for centuries as the domain of the College of Churchwardens of the Dutch Reformed Congregation of Leiden — the administrative heart of the church, where decisions were made under the watchful presence of tradition and authority.

What makes this room truly unique is not only its rich past, but above all its pronounced character. The barrel-vaulted ceiling is a vibrant spectacle of family coats of arms, transforming the ceiling into a living mosaic of history. The space is further defined by an original parchment name list, exquisite gilt leather wall coverings, a stately fireplace with a painting of Tivoli by Dirk Verhart, and a classic pier mirror.

For private gatherings in a setting rich in character, the Churchwardens’ Room is a true discovery. This colourful and distinctive space accommodates up to 10 guests for an intimate dinner or an exclusive meeting.

A hidden gem in the heart of the Pieterskerk perfect for those seeking to host a gathering in a space that dares to be different. The Churchwardens’ Room is not a conventional meeting room, but a place that leaves a lasting impression and inspires.

Available technical facilities:

Mobile LCD screen with casting capability and pointer

&CULTURAL

In the heart of Leiden, the Pieterskerk has served as a meaningful place of gathering for centuries. Not as a static monument, but as a vibrant space where culture, society, and knowledge converge. From the impressive performance of the St Matthew Passion to the annual 4 May Remembrance Service, the monument offers moments of reflection and connection that extend far beyond its walls. These traditions not only enrich the city’s cultural life, but also underscore its social and civic significance.

At the same time, the Pieterskerk is a contemporary event venue for businesses and institutions. Within this monumental setting, symposia, conferences, corporate dinners, celebrations, and networking events find a distinctive stage. The space offers not only prestige, but also the right atmosphere for meaningful dialogue, new ideas, and lasting collaboration. Its location in Leiden’s knowledgerich city centre further strengthens the connection between past, present, and future.

It is precisely the combination of cultural depth and professional functionality that makes the Pieterskerk so exceptional. Here, every event naturally gains greater meaning. It is a place where tradition and progress reinforce one another — and where organisations can position themselves as part of a larger story.

TECHNICALFACILITIES

Behind the centuries-old walls of the Pieterskerk lies a world of modern possibilities. Here, monumental splendour seamlessly meets the latest technology — ready for events that make history.

Professional sound system specifically tailored to the acoustics of the Pieterskerk.

Built-in lift platform to the Choir

This makes it possible to place large elements onto the raised Choir floor. Meyer sound system

Digital lighting pendants

Standard lighting pendants can be programmed in any colour.

Double glazing

Thanks to double glazing throughout the entire building, a stable indoor temperature is maintained in all seasons.

Underfloor heating

The convector pits are strategically positioned throughout the building, allowing us to easily maintain a comfortable temperature across the entire monument.

Rigging with a height of up to 25 metres, spanning the entire ceiling.

Power supply & cable ducts

Along both sides of the Nave, cable ducts with power outlets and highvoltage connections (475 amperes) are installed This ensures that cabling is neatly concealed and that power can be supplied anywhere within the monument (from 125A CEE to 230V–16A).

PIETERSKERK PARTNERS

The Pieterskerk Leiden works with a carefully selected network of preferred partners who are familiar with the monument and understand what is required to ensure events here run smoothly and with style. For catering, furniture, and event staff, we offer a number of experienced partners who know the venue well and guarantee quality and service.

At the same time, we remain open to bespoke solutions and are happy to explore alternative collaborations that align with the character of the Pieterskerk.

For audiovisual technology, we work exclusively with Flowsound, our trusted partner and expert in this field. As a long-standing presence within the Pieterskerk, they know exactly how to work with the acoustics, technical possibilities, and the monument’s heritage value. This ensures a flawlessly tailored technical production for your event.

In addition, a Duty Manager is always present during events. For this role, we work closely with Roavin as our fixed partner. For larger events, we also ensure the presence of Securo Security.

SUSTAINABILITY

Green Key Gold

The Pieterskerk Leiden has been Green Key Gold certified since 2011 — the leading international label demonstrating that an organisation goes beyond legal requirements in its commitment to the environment. We pursue sustainable practices in all our procurement. For events, we also seek the most sustainable solutions wherever possible, from working with local caterers to offering sustainable transport options.

Maintenance

Sustainability is a natural consideration in all restoration and maintenance work. A few examples?

We have chosen heat- and sound-insulating glazing that respects the historic character of the building.

When wood needs to be replaced, oak and softwood are traditionally used. This timber is always FSC certified.

All paint products are carefully selected and always carry recognised eco-labels.

Energy

In addition to purchasing green energy, all lighting in the Pieterskerk Leiden is LED lighting including the chandeliers.

The monument is also equipped with motion sensors in corridors and restrooms. This applies as well to several backstage areas, such as high above the vaults. There, lights switch on automatically when sensors detect movement and turn off again after a short period.

THE ORDER OF ST. PIETER

The Order of St. PIeter: a network with a mission

The Order of St. PIeter was founded in 2009 as the business network of the Pieterskerk Leiden. This unique organisation brings together engaged entrepreneurs and professionals around one of the city’s most iconic monuments. As in centuries past, the Pieterskerk remains a place of meeting and connection — now strengthened through its partnership with the Order.

Thanks to the support of the Order, the Pieterskerk is able to fulfil its ambitions: to maintain the monument sustainably, preserve its cultural heritage, and make it accessible to a broad audience. Members of the Order contribute through their involvement and financial support, helping to secure the future of this historic heart of Leiden.

The Pieterskerk’s annual token of appreciation to the Order

As a gesture of gratitude, the Pieterskerk Leiden gives something back to the Order each year. Members receive an attractive and culturally rich package of exclusive benefits and invitations. This includes, among others:

A table for 10 guests at the charity gala in support of the Pieterskerk Leiden

Participation in an Order gathering for 2 persons

Two tickets for the St Matthew Passion on Good Friday, including: seating in Section A or B (rows 9–11), a preconcert reception, and lunch

Complimentary access to the Bach Academy

Complimentary half-day use of the Churchwardens’ Room for a dinner or meeting

A standing 10% discount on venue hire

A Friends Pass and the annual magazine De Pieter

Would you like more information or are you interested in becoming a member of the Order of St. PIeter?

Please contact us at directie@pieterskerk.com.

If you would prefer to support the Pieterskerk Leiden in a different way, please visit www.pieterskerk.com/steun.