Ons ’Lieve Heer op Solder, the church hidden in an attic

Ons ’Lieve Heer op Solder, translated means "Our Lord in the Attic", is a precious treasure right in the heart of Amsterdam. It is an ancient clandestine church, a place of worship transformed into one of the most unique and fascinating museums in the city. The church, housed in the attic of a splendid 17th century building, was secretly built by its owner and wealthy merchant Jan Hartman in 1663, after the Protestant Reformation of 1578 which prohibited Catholics from practicing their faith.



Authorities at the time were aware of such clandestine churches, and they were to a certain degree tolerated. Of course, every ritual had to take place inside private homes, as long as they did not have public signs and sounds such as bells that could be heard from the outside. Thousands of Catholic followers climbed into this attic for nearly two centuries, until in 1885, all religious restrictions of the reform came to an end. Even today, the church is hidden behind the false door that leads to the attic of this house, keeping it secret. But once you enter inside, you find yourself in front of a place of great beauty, surrounded by the seventeenth-century atmosphere of typical and elegant Dutch decorations.



The entire building was transformed into a museum in 1888, taking the name of Museum Amstelkring. It is the oldest museum in Amsterdam after the Rijkmuseum, a place that attracts over 100,000 tourists a year. It is possible to visit the entire house and get lost in the rooms that still retain the fascinating 17th century furnishings intact. A must see stop, once again used to celebrate Catholic mass, ceremonies and commemorations still held today. The museum is open all year, except December 25 and April 27 for King's Day.

All information regarding timetables and ticket prices can be found on the official website: Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder