Dating back to the Middle Ages, the Dutch word 'hofje' refers to hidden courtyards surrounded by almshouses. Haarlem is especially famous for its charming hofjes—with 21 unique examples scattered across the city. Often hidden behind modest doors, these peaceful courtyards offer a quiet escape from the city. In this blog post, we'll explore Haarlem's most beautiful hofjes and their rich history and unique charm.
Opening hours | Monday- Saturday 10:00- 17:00, Sunday closed
Hofje van Staats, founded in 1730 by Ysbrand Staats, is one of the largest courtyards in Haarlem and was originally built to house poor elderly women. The peaceful courtyard is surrounded by charming 18th-century houses, creating a quiet sanctuary in the center of the city. The shutters on the windows were repainted in yellow and black, the colors of the Staats family coat of arms. Visiting Hofje van Staats offers a glimpse into Haarlem’s social and architectural heritage. Its serene atmosphere and historic significance make it a must-visit for anyone interested in hofjes.
Opening hours | Monday- Friday 10:00- 12:00, Saturday and Sunday closed
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Hofje In den Groenen Tuin has a rich history spanning over 400 years. This charming hofje was founded in 1616 by Catharina Jansdochter, the widow of Jacob Claeszoon van Schoorl. It was originally established to provide homes for Roman Catholic women aged 50 and over.
The hofje celebrated its 400th anniversary in 2016 with the installation of a charming courtyard pump in its garden. Discover the charm of this peaceful garden, where vibrant flowers and lush greenery create a picturesque haven. Just simply ring the doorbell during visiting hours—don’t miss this opportunity while you’re in the centrum!
Opening hours | Monday- Saturday 10:00- 18:00, Sunday closed
Teylers Hofje is another charming courtyard established in 1787 by Pieter Teyler van der Hulst, the founder of the Teylers Museum. Designed by architect Leendert Viervant, who also created the Oval Hall in the Teylers Museum, it was originally intended to provide housing for elderly, poor women of all religions.
You can enter Teylers Hofje through its beautiful neoclassical gate on Koudenhorn, with its elegant Doric columns and intricate wrought-iron details. Take a moment to enjoy the architectural beauty of this charming hofje, while taking in the scenic view of the Bakenesserkerk tower.
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Established in 1414 on the site of Sint Michielsklooster, Proveniershof has seen many changes. After a fire in 1567, it changed from a quiet convent into a lively training ground for marksmen. By 1681, it had become an early hotel, known as a "Herenlogement," and by 1707, it was serving as an almshouse. In the late 18th century, it mostly became rental housing. It also functioned as an old people’s home from 1810 to 1866. After a renovation in 1991, Proveniershof now features spacious homes with multiple rooms. Today, Proveniershof is managed by the housing corporation Ymere, and it’s not connected to Stichting Haarlemse Hofjes. It also hosts a cozy café called "Hofje zonder Zorgen." The hofje is open every day. You can enter from Grote Houtstraat to enjoy a lovely visit to this picturesque courtyard.
Opening hours | Monday- Saturday 10:00- 17:00, Sunday closed
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Hofje van Bakenes is the oldest hofje in the Netherlands, dating back to 1395 when Dirck van Bakenes founded it to offer a safe and peaceful home for single elderly women. Over the centuries, it has been continuously renovated, but it still holds onto its charming, timeless character. You can stroll through its tranquil courtyard, where a historic pump and a donation box invite you to contribute to preserving this green oasis for future generations.
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Frans Loenenhofje is another hidden gem nestled behind a Renaissance-style gate designed by architect Lieven de Key in 1625. This historic courtyard, distinguished by the Loenen coat of arms featuring a decapitated lion, was founded thanks to the generosity of a wealthy Amsterdammer. For over 400 years, it has served as a tranquil retreat for single women, fostering a close-knit and harmonious community.
Despite undergoing several renovations, the hofje preserves its timeless charm. Although the old gas lamps have been replaced with modern LED bulbs, they still cast that warm, nostalgic glow. Frans Loenenhofje continues to offer a serene sanctuary in the heart of the city, dedicated to women aged 55 and over, preserving its original purpose from centuries past.
Discover Haarlem’s hofjes—serene, hidden courtyards that provide a tranquil escape from the city’s busy streets. While we’ve highlighted only six of them, Haarlem has many more hofjes worth exploring. Remember, these picturesque spots are private residences, so keep your visit as peaceful as the surroundings.
We hope you enjoyed this glimpse into the vibrant life of Haarlem. For more stories, tips, and local insights, keep exploring HaarlemToday. Don’t forget to share your favorite articles with friends and join the conversation on our social media channels. Until next time, keep discovering the unique flavors and experiences that make our city special.
