The Westerkerk was officially opened on Whitsunday 1631. It is one of the oldest churches especially built for the Protestant
services, and the largest as such church in the Netherlands.

The tower, which occupies a unique place in the affections of the people of Amsterdam, bears the symbol of the imperial crown of
Maximilian of Austria, which was his gift to the city in gratitude for support given to the Austro-Burgundian princes. It has inspired
many songs and poems and remains a symbol of the city for Amsterdammers abroad.

source: http://www.westerkerk.nl/index.php?page=welkom-en