Our Lord in the Attic Museum

AmsterdamNetherlands 52° N · 4° E Updated Jun 2025

Discover a hidden gem in Amsterdam's rich historical tapestry: Our Lord in the Attic Museum.

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Our Lord in the Attic Museum

Introduction

Experience a hidden chapter of Amsterdam’s religious and architectural history at Our Lord in the Attic Museum (Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder). Tucked away within a 17th-century canal house, this clandestine Catholic church offers a rare window into the city’s past, reflecting the resilience and ingenuity of Amsterdam’s Catholic community during a time of religious repression (Amsterdam.info, AmsterdamTips). This guide provides a comprehensive overview—covering the museum’s origins, architectural marvels, practical visitor information, and key travel tips—to help you make the most of your visit.

Black and white photograph of the 75th anniversary celebration of the Amstelkring in Amsterdam, taken on January 9, 1959
Black and white archival photograph by Harry Pot/Anefo depicting the 75-year celebration of the Amstelkring in Amsterdam on January 9, 1959. Part of the Anefo photographic collection at the Nationaal Archief.
Black and white photo of Bishop J. P. Huibers celebrating high mass during the 75th anniversary of the Amstelkring in Amsterdam
Black and white photograph taken by Harry Pot in 1959 showing Bishop J. P. Huibers of Haarlem celebrating high mass at the 75th anniversary celebration of the Amstelkring church in Amsterdam. Part of the Anefo photo collection in the Nationaal Archief.
Bishop J. P. Huibers celebrating high mass at the 75th anniversary of the Amstelkring in Amsterdam on January 9, 1959, black and white photo
Black and white photograph from January 9, 1959 showing Bishop J. P. Huibers of Haarlem conducting a high mass at the 75th anniversary celebration of the Amstelkring in Amsterdam, taken by photographer Harry Pot for Anefo, archived by Nationaal Archief.
Mgr. J. P. Huibers, Bishop of Haarlem, officiating high mass at the 75th anniversary celebration of Amstelkring in Amsterdam on January 9, 1959
Black and white photo showing Mgr. J. P. Huibers, bishop of Haarlem, carrying out a high mass during the 75th anniversary celebration of Amstelkring in Amsterdam taken by Harry Pot for the Anefo collection, dated January 9, 1959.
75th anniversary celebration of Amstelkring in Amsterdam with Mgr. J. P. Huibers during Holy Communion in black and white
Black and white photograph capturing the 75th anniversary celebration of Amstelkring in Amsterdam on January 9, 1959, featuring Mgr. J. P. Huibers during the Holy Communion ceremony. Photographed by Harry Pot / Anefo, from the Nationaal Archief.
Mgr. J. P. Huibers officiating holy communion during the 75th anniversary celebration of the Amstelkring in Amsterdam on January 9, 1959
Black and white photo of Mgr. J. P. Huibers during the holy communion ceremony at the 75th anniversary celebration of the Amstelkring in Amsterdam, taken by Harry Pot for Anefo on January 9, 1959.
75th anniversary celebration of the Amstelkring in Amsterdam with Professor Dr. W.J.M.A. Asselbergs and notary J.F. Everling on January 9, 1959
Black and white photograph taken by Harry Pot for Anefo, showing the 75th anniversary of the Amstelkring in Amsterdam featuring Professor Dr. W.J.M.A. Asselbergs and notary J.F. Everling on January 9, 1959. Part of the Nationaal Archief collection.
Black and white photo of 75th anniversary reception of Amstelkring at Schuilkerk in Amsterdam on January 9, 1959
Black and white photo capturing the 75th anniversary reception of the Amstelkring at the Schuilkerk, a historic Catholic clandestine church 'Ons Lieve Heer op Solder' located at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 40, Amsterdam, taken on January 9, 1959 by Harry Pot / Anefo, archived by Nationaal Archief.
Black and white photo of a reception celebrating 75 years of the Amstelkring in Amsterdam at the Schuilkerk
Black and white photograph showing a reception in the Schuilkerk in Amsterdam celebrating the 75-year existence of the Amstelkring on January 9, 1959. Originally a Catholic hidden church, now part of Museum Amstelkring located at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 40, Amsterdam.
Black and white photo of the 75th anniversary reception of the Amstelkring at the Schuilkerk in Amsterdam on January 9, 1959
Historical black and white photograph capturing the 75th anniversary reception of the Amstelkring society held in the Schuilkerk, a former Catholic clandestine church known as Ons Lieve Heer op Solder, located at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 40, Amsterdam, taken by photographer Harry Pot for Anefo on Janua
Black and white photo of the 75th anniversary celebration of the Amstelkring in Amsterdam with Deken van Amsterdam mgr. G. P. J. van der Berg and Wethouder mr. A. de Roos
Historic black and white photograph taken on January 9, 1959, showing the 75th anniversary celebration of the Amstelkring in Amsterdam, featuring Deken van Amsterdam mgr. G. P. J. van der Berg and Wethouder mr. A. de Roos. Photo by Harry Pot, archived by Nationaal Archief.
Painting of the Holy Family Jesus Mary and Saint Joseph by Adriaen van der Werff
Detailed painting of the Holy Family featuring Jesus, Mary, and Saint Joseph by artist Adriaen van der Werff

History and Origins

Building the Hidden Church

Our Lord in the Attic Museum stands at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 38-40, in the heart of Amsterdam. The canal house was constructed in 1630 and, between 1661 and 1663, was converted into a secret Catholic church by Jan Hartman, a prosperous Catholic merchant (Amsterdam.info).

Religious Context and Tolerance

The Alteration of 1578 brought Protestant dominance to Amsterdam, making public Catholic worship illegal. Catholics, unable to practice openly, created “schuilkerken” (hidden churches) in private homes, with city authorities often tolerating these spaces due to prevailing ideals of freedom of conscience (AmsterdamTips).

Architectural Features

The attic church ingeniously utilizes the upper three floors of the canal house. Designed to accommodate up to 150 worshipers, it features a richly decorated Baroque altar, a pulpit, and an organ. Notable artistic highlights include an altarpiece by Jacob de Wit, completed in 1716, and intricate 18th-century woodwork (Introducing Amsterdam, source). Narrow benches and suspended semi-floors maximize the limited space, exemplifying 17th-century architectural creativity.

Transition to Museum and Recognition

After the opening of the Church of St. Nicholas in 1887, Our Lord in the Attic was no longer needed as a clandestine church. It was converted into a museum in 1888, becoming Amsterdam’s second oldest museum after the Rijksmuseum (Wikipedia). The museum has undergone several renovations, most recently in 2015, when a modern extension was added to enhance accessibility and visitor engagement (AmsterdamTips). In 2024, the museum received the European Heritage Label, recognizing its role in the history of religious tolerance in Europe (Wikipedia).

Visitor Experience and Amenities

Visitors explore meticulously preserved historical rooms, including the kitchen, confessional, and living quarters, culminating in the awe-inspiring attic church. The museum offers a multilingual audio tour, providing historical context and enriching the self-guided experience (source). A museum café and shop—both accessible without a ticket—offer refreshments and gifts. While the museum strives to accommodate all visitors, the original steep and narrow staircases make full wheelchair access impossible (source).

Practical Information: Tickets and Hours

Opening Hours

  • Monday to Saturday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Sunday 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  • Special Holiday Hours December 25–26 and January 1, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM; December 31, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Closed on King's Day (April 27)
    (source)

Ticket Prices

  • Adults €12.50
  • Youth (5–17) €6
  • Children under 5 Free
  • Family tickets From €22 (one adult and one child)
  • Discounts Available for Museumkaart, ICOM, Stadspas, iAmsterdam City Card, Amsterdam Pass, Vereniging Rembrandt, and Vriendenpas holders (source, source)

Tickets can be purchased online or at the museum entrance.

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

  • Getting There The museum is a five-minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station or Nieuwmarkt metro station; trams 4, 14, and 24 stop at Dam Square, a short walk away (source).
  • Parking Nearby garages include Nieuwendijk, De Bijenkorf (Dam), and Central Station (source).
  • Nearby Attractions De Wallen Red Light District, Anne Frank House, Moco Museum, H'ART Museum, and the Dutch Resistance Museum offer additional historical and cultural experiences (source).
  • Events The attic church is available for weddings and special events; advance booking is required (source).
  • Special Activities Workshops, lectures, and group tours are available and should be reserved in advance (source).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Due to the building’s historic design, it is not wheelchair accessible. Visitors with mobility challenges are advised to contact the museum for assistance (source).

Can I take photos inside?
Yes, photography is allowed without flash or tripods (source).

Are audio guides available?
A free audio tour is available in multiple languages (source).

How long does a visit take?
Expect to spend 50 minutes to 1.5 hours exploring the museum.

Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets can be purchased online or at the museum entrance. Discounts are available for several city and museum cards (source).

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