The Zuiderkerk in Amsterdam dates back to 1611. It was the first church in Amsterdam that was specifically built for Protestant worship. The church was designed by Hendrick de Keyser, a prolific architect and sculptor who was responsible for a number of buildings around the country. The church has a Gothic appearance, and now serves as an information centre, where the council run a number of temporary exhibitions to display their plans for the city. The tower can be climbed during the summer months, and offers a wonderful view of the surrounding city.