Museum Amstelkring

In the latter half of the 17th century, Catholicism was banned from open practice by the Protestant Church. Since Amsterdam has always had a more liberal world-view, with a more relaxed idea toward diversity and tolerance, a “secret” Catholic church was tucked away within a seemingly ordinary canal house in the heart of Amsterdam. Today, this secret church has been opened to the public as a museum, and serves as a constant reminder of both the fundamental importance of Catholicism in the region, as well as a symbol of the tolerant demeanor of the people of Amsterdam. The church, often referred to as “Our Lord in the Attic” is open for tours, and the other areas of the canal home have been converted to a museum that focuses on religious artifacts and period paintings, many depicting events symbolic to the Catholic faith. The rooms are also decorated with period pieces of furniture, and are decorated in a way to show what it is believed to have looked like during the height of its activity. Guided tours are available, and must be booked well in advance.

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