What is it?
Originally known as the Museum Amstelkring, this place was once a well-kept secret (not so much nowadays). It’s one of the oldest museums in Amsterdam, hidden away in an old canal house, and going to see it feels like discovering something quite special in the city – even if the secret is very much out.
What should I see there?
The main attraction is upstairs, and goes by the name: ‘Our Sweet Lord in the Attic’. Built in 1663, this attic church was used by Catholics during the 17th century, when they were banned from worshipping after the Alteration. The altarpiece features a painting by the noted 18th-century artist Jacob de Wit. Meanwhile, the beautifully preserved rooms on the lower floor offer a realistic glimpse of what life was like during the 17th century.
What’s there to do nearby?
Well, there’s the rest of the Red Light District for starters. Or check out Little Saigon (a three-minute walk away) for a banh mi or bowl of pho if you fancy a bite to eat.
This review was fact-checked and updated in 2024.