Amsterdam » Museums » Our dear Lord in the attic

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Our dear Lord in the attic, Amsterdam museum

The attic of a historic canal house conceals a Catholic church known in Dutch as "Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder", which translates to "Our dear Lord in the attic".

Hidden churches in Amsterdam

It used to be a private place of worship for Catholics during the time when it was forbidden to practice Catholic faith in public spaces. While Protestant city government was in power Catholic churches and monasteries were confiscated and Catholics had to seek alternative ways of practising their faith. This lead to hidden house churches.

This was tolerated by the city government thanks to the principle of freedom of conscience that applied in the Republic of the Netherlands. Behind their door, everyone is allowed to think and believe whatever they want. This created a climate of tolerance exceptional for those times.

This attic church was commissioned by the wealthy Catholic merchant Jan Hartman and dedicated in 1663. Hartman lived in the canal house with his family and the church has been celebrating Masses in the attic.

Amsterdam canal house with a church in it

The house is well preserved and was built in the 17th century. Narrow corridors and stairs connect historically decorated living quarters, kitchens and bedsteads. And lead to a complete church in the house's attic.

The lower floors of the building became a museum in 1888 and today contain refurbished rooms, as well as a collection of church silver, various religious artifacts and paintings. Among other artifacts, the museum house contains heavy Dutch furniture, tableclocks and two kitchens with historical Delft tiles.

Amsterdam attic church museum tickets

You can book admission on this Museum online tickets website.

Opening hours of the Amsterdam attic church

Museum Our dear Lord in the attic on the map

• Photographer: Rebekka Mell