Nederland - Rolde, Jacobuskerk

Rolde, once the capital of the area known as the Rolderdingspel, had already a wooden church around the year of 900. Around 1200 the first stone church was built: a large Romanesque church with three naves.

Most probably the construction of the present Jacobuskerk (James Church) began in the early 15th century and was inaugurated late 1427 or early 1428 and put into use as a roman catholic church. It became a protestant church after the reformation of 1598 (nowadays both protestants and catholics are using the church for their services).

The Jacobuskerk has a remarkable high tower (52 meters), which is visible from far away and served in the past as a beacon for travelers to and from the city of Groningen. During the most recent restoration (1961 – ’64), the church was thoroughly reconstructed to its original form and changes from previous renovations were undone.

The Jacobuskerk is beautifully located in the centre of Rolde, next to an old cemetery and two interesting dolmens. The church is open for visitors daily during summer season. In Septmeber 2021 we were able to have a look inside. The colourful stained-glass windows in the choir were donated after the last restoration by, among others, the province of Drenthe and were made by the glazier Joep Nicolas. The banister organ is dating back around 1820 and was placed in Rolde in 1847. Early 2013, the last major restoration was completed and the organ has largely regained its original character.