Netherlands Amsterdam Amsterdam Museum

Our Lord in the Attic Museum

About

The Our Lord in the Attic Museum (Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder) is a remarkable 17th-century canal house in Amsterdam that conceals a hidden Catholic church in its attic. Constructed between 1661 and 1663 by Jan Hartman, a Catholic merchant, the clandestine church was a response to the prohibition of public Catholic worship following the Protestant Reformation. Despite the ban, private worship was tolerated, and this secret church became a sanctuary for Catholics to practice their faith discreetly. The attic church, ingeniously spanning the top three floors of the house and adjoining buildings, could accommodate up to 150 worshippers. Its preservation offers a unique glimpse into the religious tolerance and architectural ingenuity of the Dutch Golden Age. In 1888, the building was transformed into a museum, making it one of Amsterdam's oldest. Visitors can explore the meticulously restored living quarters, kitchens, and the awe-inspiring hidden church, experiencing the intimate blend of domestic life and covert worship. The museum stands as a testament to the enduring values of freedom of conscience and religious expression.

Amsterdam Netherlands

Location

Our Lord in the Attic Museum, or Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder, is located at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 38-40, 1012 GD Amsterdam, right in the heart of the city’s historic center. Tucked away inside a well-preserved 17th-century canal house, this unique museum is just a five-minute walk from both Amsterdam Central Station and the Nieuwmarkt metro station, making it exceptionally convenient for visitors arriving by public transport. The museum’s central location places it within Amsterdam’s oldest neighborhood, where narrow streets, picturesque canals, and centuries-old buildings create an atmospheric backdrop for exploration. Nearby, you’ll find some of Amsterdam’s most iconic attractions. The Oude Kerk, the city’s oldest church, is less than 100 meters away and stands at the heart of the Red Light District, which itself is just a short stroll from the museum. Amsterdam Central Station, the city’s main transport hub, is within easy walking distance, as is Dam Square, the bustling civic center surrounded by the Royal Palace and Nieuwe Kerk. The area is also filled with lively cafes, shops, and historic streets, offering a quintessential Amsterdam experience. With its remarkable hidden church and proximity to so many of the city’s highlights, Our Lord in the Attic Museum is ideally situated for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of central Amsterdam.