Harmelen (U): reformed church

Harmelen's first church was probably built in the late-13th century, although some sources claim the village had a church already in the 9th century. During its history, the church was destroyed and rebuilt several times. Its oldest parts date from the 14th century, including the tower and the apse of the choir, but for the most part the current church is from the 15th century. The one-aisled nave is remarkably wide compared to its width and was probably narrower originally.
In 1900 the church was badly damaged by fire, after having been struck by lightning. The entire interior and the roof were lost, leaving only the tower and the walls standing. Architect J.C. Wentinck was commissioned to design a new church. However, the mayor prevented the demolition of the ruins, and instead Wentinck was now commissioned to restore the old church. The architect made plans together with his father E.G. Wentinck, but P.J.H. Cuypers is known to have been involved as well. The resulting restoration was largely in neo-Gothic style. Portals were built at the western and northern sides, the windows were given new traceries and a natural stone balustrade was added to the tower, replacing a wooden one. The tower was clad with new bricks, thus visually correcting its leaning forward. In 1901 the restoration was completed. The neo-Gothic look of the church was maintained during another restoration in 1977-1978.