Graaff-Reinet : Groot Kerk

Graaff-Reinet has the most beautiful Dutch Reformed Church called the “Groot Kerk” (Translated to Big Church).  For years driving around this church was one of the highlights of our trips to my uncle’s farm.
Groot Kerk with the bright Karoo sunlight
In 2008 we spent a weekend in Graaff-Reinet for my cousin’s wedding and went inside the church for the first time.  I must say that the inside was a bit disappointing after seeing the pretty outside.
This May we spend 2 days exploring Graaff-Reinet and a visit to this town would not be complete without a few photos of this beautiful church.






















This is the fourth church to be built on this site.  The first one burnt down before it was finished, the second was completed in 1800 but was torn down in 1822 and the third was completed in 1823.  The foundation stone of the current church was laid on 12 April 1886 and it was inaugurated in 1887.  J Bisset designed the church in the style of the Salisbury Cathedral in England.
 After walking around the church we went inside for a few more pictures.  Inside is quite dark with solid teak wood doors and pulpit while the pews are from American grain wood.  There is also some stained glass windows and beautiful organ.  The organ was inaugurated on 17 February 1894.

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