Haarlem Grote Markt

A square that speaks for itself

The Grote Markt in Haarlem is one of the most beautiful squares in the Netherlands. Not because anyone has ever declared it so, but simply because you stand there and see it. The Sint-Bavokerk dominates the scene entirely. The tower rises to 78 metres and gives you an almost constant vertical anchor in your composition. Surrounding the church are historic facades that vary just enough in colour and style to stay interesting.

Light and timing

The square is oriented east to west, which means you get lovely side light on the western facades in the morning. In the evening that reverses. Around golden hour the stone of the Bavokerk warms up beautifully, especially when there is some cloud cover to spread the light. Summer afternoons are less rewarding because of the harsh, high light and the crowds of tourists. Winter works well: lower sun, thinner crowds, and when it freezes a faint mist sometimes hangs above the square and softens everything slightly.

Compositions and focal lengths

Wide or telephoto, both work here. With a 24mm or 28mm lens you can capture the church and the facades on one side in a single frame. Get low for more drama, or find a vantage point, because the square is flat and your shooting angle determines everything. With a longer focal length, say 85mm or 135mm, you can isolate market visitors with the church as a backdrop. The terraces and market stalls on market days give street photographers extra material to work with.

Practical information

The market runs every Monday and Saturday, which brings additional activity. The square is freely accessible and you do not need a permit for non-commercial photography in public space. Parking is easiest in one of the car parks around the centre, as the square itself is car-free. Haarlem city centre is easy to reach by train: the station is about a ten-minute walk away.

Sources and further reading

• Gemeente Haarlem
• Sint-Bavokerk Haarlem
• Wikipedia: Grote Markt (Haarlem)