Amsterdam, a city known for its artistic heritage, elaborate canal system and narrow houses with gabled facades is also home to some of the most beautiful country houses. These historic buildings offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Amsterdam. Here are seven of these magnificent country homes that you must visit on your next trip to this enchanting city.
Museum Van Loon
The Museum Van Loon is situated in the heart of Amsterdam’s canal district. This grand 17th-century house was once inhabited by Willem van Loon, co-founder of the Dutch East India Company. The museum showcases an extensive collection of paintings, furniture, silverware and porcelain from various centuries which provide insight into life during Amsterdam’s Golden Age.
Huis Marseille
Housed in two monumental buildings dating back to the 1660s, Huis Marseille is Amsterdam’s first photography museum. Named after the French city Marseille as a tribute by its original owner who was engaged in trade with France at that time; it offers visitors four centuries’ worth of architectural history along with an ever-changing array of photographic exhibitions.
Rembrandt House Museum
Once home to one of Holland’s most famous painters – Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn – this historic building now serves as a public art gallery showcasing his works alongside those from his contemporaries. Visitors can explore where Rembrandt lived and worked between 1639-1658 while taking in breathtaking views over River Amstel.
Museum Geelvinck Hinlopen Huis
This stunning patrician mansion built around 1687 transports visitors back to times when wealthy merchants ruled supreme within Amsterdam society. With beautifully maintained gardens adding charm to its overall allure; it hosts concerts regularly, creating a harmonious blend of history and culture.
Museum Willet-Holthuysen
Another gem in Amsterdam’s historic canal belt is the Museum Willet-Holthuysen. This 17th-century double-fronted mansion was left to the city by its last private owners with all its original furniture and artworks intact. Today, it offers visitors an authentic experience of high society living during Amsterdam’s Golden Age.
Tropenmuseum
The Tropenmuseum, also known as the Royal Tropical Institute, is housed in one of Netherlands’ most impressive historical buildings. It showcases fascinating exhibitions about people from tropical and subtropical areas around the world; giving visitors a chance to explore various cultures under one roof.
Cat Cabinet (KattenKabinet)
Last but not least on our list is the unique Cat Cabinet or KattenKabinet – a museum dedicated entirely to cat-related art. Housed in a grand 17th century canal house; this quirky museum displays paintings, sculptures and other works featuring felines by artists such as Rembrandt, Picasso amongst others providing an unusual yet delightful cultural experience for cat lovers!
These seven country houses provide not only architectural beauty but also rich stories about their past inhabitants and life in different periods of Dutch history. Whether you’re interested in art, architecture or history – these homes offer something for everyone while adding another dimension to your visit to Amsterdam.
Frequently asked questions
What are the Seven Country Houses in Amsterdam?
The Seven Country Houses, also known as De Zevenlandenhuizen, is a row of seven houses located on Roemer Visscherstraat in Amsterdam. Each house represents an architectural style from seven different countries: Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Russia, Netherlands and England. The houses were designed by architect Tjeerd Kuipers and built between 1894 and 1895.
How can I visit the Seven Country Houses in Amsterdam?
You don’t need to book a tour or pay any entrance fee to see these unique houses; they’re open for public viewing all year round. You can easily reach them by foot if you’re already within central Amsterdam. If you’re coming from further away or prefer not to walk, you can use public transportation such as buses or trams that stop nearby at Elandsgracht or Leidseplein stops respectively.
Can I go inside the Seven Country Houses?
No, unfortunately visitors cannot enter the interiors of the Seven Country Houses as they are private residences. However, their exteriors alone are worth visiting due to their distinctive designs which beautifully showcase each country’s architectural style.
What is significant about each house’s architecture?
The German house is built in the Romanesque Revival style with its characteristic round arches and thick walls; while French one features Renaissance elements like symmetrical proportions and columns. Spanish house showcases Moorish influences seen through horseshoe arches; Italian one has distinct Venetian Gothic elements including pointed arch windows.
The Russian building draws inspiration from Byzantine architecture with onion-shaped domes whereas Dutch home reflects traditional local design featuring stepped gable roofline typical for historic Dutch buildings.
Lastly English cottage-style home stands out with its half-timbered facade and steep, sloping roof.
What else is there to do near the Seven Country Houses?
The Seven Country Houses are located in a vibrant area of Amsterdam teeming with attractions. You can visit the nearby Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s largest city park offering open-air concerts during summer months. Other cultural highlights include the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum which house some of world’s most famous artworks.
For shopping enthusiasts, PC Hooftstraat offers high-end fashion boutiques while Leidseplein is known for its lively nightlife scene with numerous bars and clubs.
