Janskerk

Janskerk is the Dutch name for churches dedicated to Saint John, either Saint John the Evangelist or Saint John the Baptist. The term is used for several churches in the Netherlands and historically in nearby regions, reflecting the broad veneration of John in medieval Christian practice. Janskerken were typically built from the late Middle Ages into the early modern period, and their architectural forms vary from brick Gothic halls to later adaptations that accommodated changing liturgical needs.

A widely noted example is the St. Janskerk in Gouda, in the province of South Holland. Construction began in the 15th century, and the church is especially noted for its extensive collection of medieval and early modern stained-glass windows, part of the renowned Gouda glass tradition. The building constitutes a brick Gothic hall church with a tall tower and a long nave, and it has served as a parish church as well as a site for artistic and cultural programs.

Across the Netherlands, other towns have churches named Janskerk, each with its own local history and role within urban religious life. In many cases, Janskerken have undergone renovations or repurposing after changes in religious practice during the Reformation, while still preserving architectural and artistic heritage. Today, such churches often function as active places of worship, tourist attractions, and venues for concerts or events, reflecting their continued cultural significance as historic religious buildings.