How has the tower of the Gtote Kerk shaped the city skyline over the centuries? How did it withstand the city fire of 1862? And what actually happens behind the tower walls when you hear the carillon?
The history of the Oude Markt in pictures
A new permanent exhibition on the second floor of the tower of the Great Church brings the answers to these questions to life. Unique historical photographs on roll-up banners and framed canvas displays, accompanied by explanatory stories about one of the most iconic places in Enschede.
The banners and canvases take you on a journey through time and are divided into five themes: the tower, the carillon, around the church, fire in the city, and the market.
On April 23, 2025, the exhibition was officially opened by Mayor Roelof Bleker. The exhibition was made possible thanks to Culture, Events & City Marketing, the Historical Society Enschede-Lonneker Foundation, the Enschede Carillons Society, and city carillonist Esther Schopman.
Climb the tower and discover its secrets
The exhibition is part of the guided tours led by the city carillonist, which take place every Sunday at 2:00 PM, or - if her schedule allows - by appointment.
Visitors can not only view historical photographs, but also climb the tower, admire the bells up close, and discover what lies behind the sounds of the carillon.
More information about booking a guided tour and admission prices can be found on the CityCarillon website.
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