Admire the War-Scarred Bronze Doors

Before rushing inside the sanctuary, take a moment to examine the main entrance doors of the Great St. Lawrence Church. These massive bronze doors were designed by the famous Italian artist Giacomo Manzù and were installed in 1968. The theme of the relief is 'War and Peace,' serving as a powerful, tactile monument to the devastation of the 1940 Rotterdam Blitz and the subsequent rebuilding of the city.

Look closely at the expressive, somber figures depicted on the panels, which show scenes of flight, destruction, and ultimate reconciliation. This masterpiece is often overlooked by tourists rushing to get inside, but it represents the resilient soul of Rotterdam. It is best viewed in the morning light when the angle of the sun casts deep shadows that accentuate the intricate details of the bronze reliefs.