The Doarpstsjerke (Petruskerk) in Jistrum is a remarkably well-preserved late Romanesque church built of red brick. It stands on a high sandy ridge in the heart of the village, making it a distinctive landmark.
The church dates from the mid-13th century, while the slender saddle-roof tower is slightly older, dating from around 1230. Decorative brick friezes run beneath the roofline, and the tower features round-arched friezes, herringbone brickwork and elegant pinnacles. Instead of the traditional rooster, the weather vane takes the shape of a horse. Look closely at the choir and you'll also discover historic hagioscopes.
Inside, the church impresses with beautiful Romano-Gothic domed vaults. In each bay, eight rounded ribs meet in a central ring, creating an elegant ceiling. The atmospheric interior combines fixed pews with traditional wooden chairs. The 17th-century pulpit, decorated with fluted corner pilasters and arched panels, remains one of the highlights. A modern baptismal font and a recent organ complete the interior.
For many years the church housed a bell from 1759, but it was taken by German forces during the Second World War.
