Why visit / Interesting facts:
- A peaceful oasis of tranquility
- Hidden Catholic church
Time required: 60 minutes
Phone: +31 20 624 66 04
Web site: http://www.opsolder.nl/e...
Opening hours:
| Time period | Opening hours |
|---|---|
| Mon - Sat: | 10am - 5pm |
| Sundays and public holidays: | 1pm - 5pm |
| January 1 and April 30: | Closed |
Admission:
| Ticket type | Charge |
|---|---|
| General: | 8 € |
| Ages 6 - 18: | 4 € |
| Under 6: | Free |
Public transport:
- Tram Line 1: Central Station stop
- Tram Line 2: Central Station stop
- Tram Line 5: Central Station stop
Address: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 40, 1012 GE, Amsterdam
Photos: (see more photos)
Photo: Sacred Destinations
Things you need to know:
- The attic of a 17th-c. canal house in the Red Light District conceals the Museum Amstelkring or Museum Our Lord in the Attic
- The museum is a fine example of hidden Catholic churches established after the Alteration; local Catholics worshiped here between 1663 and 1887
- After Amsterdam became Protestant in the 17th c. Catholics lost their right to worship in their own way; so they did it secretly in clandestine churches like this one
- The church was created in 1661 when Jan Hartman, a Catholic merchant, combined the attic of his house with the attics of two adjacent houses
- The church was extended and remodeled in Baroque style in 1735; this is when the galleries were also installed
- Catholic services and weddings are still hosted in the museum
- The lower floors of the building house a museum with refurbished rooms, various religious artifacts, paintings and a collection of church treasures
What to do there:
- Pick up a free floor plan and follow the suggested tour of the museum
- If you are confused at first, don't worry - all the rooms are clearly marked and you won't miss anything
Tips & Insights:
- Currently restoration works are carried out. The museum can be visited nonetheless
