Visit Bartolotti Huis and See Where Wealthy Merchants Lived
In the 17th century, Amsterdam merchants liked to boast about their wealth. Therefore, they commissioned the construction of opulent canal houses to display their wealth and status. Most are now used as offices, museums, or hotels. The Bartolotti House is one of these houses and is now managed by Hendrick de Keyser Monuments, an association that preserves historic houses for the future and opens them to the public as museums.
Visit the Bartolotti House: a journey to the 17th century
A visit to the Bartolotti House transports you to the grandeur of Amsterdam’s canal district in the 17th century. Upon entering the house, you immediately realize that it was built not only to impress but also to be lived in.
Book in advance to avoid disappointment
The museum operates with time slots so it never gets too crowded and you have plenty of time to explore the house at your leisure. Reservations can be made via the Hendrick de Keyser Monuments website.
Discover the Stories behind Bartolotti House
The audio tour tells you about the architecture, history, and who the house’s residents were. You’ll hear interesting details and stories and how the house has evolved over the centuries.
Experience it yourself
You’ll sit on a chair with the special Bartolotti newspaper and be allowed to peek inside all the drawers and cupboards. You’ll set the table with delicate silverware and dinner service in the kitchen and learn how to fold napkins, quite an art in the 17th century. Afterwards, stroll through the large garden with a view of the rear facade. Children can explore the house with a special treasure hunt colouring booklet.
A richly decorated hall and a dance
One of the most impressive spaces is the hall, where mahogany carvings, ornate stucco work, and Rococo-style ceiling paintings set the tone. Here, you can even try a historical dance accompanied by music and a video. It’s like being transported back to the 18th century.
The Fountain in the Garden Room as a Showpiece
The fountain in the garden room was a real eye-catcher in the days of the first residents: not only because of the marble carvings, but also because of the running water, something that must have been a source of amazement at the time.
Using a crank, hidden behind a door, cool water was pumped up from the cellars. Not drinking water, but ideal for keeping wine and glasses cool and also handy for guests to wash their hands.
Tip from the editor of Amsterdam-Nu: Buy a combi ticket
Bartolotti Museum House and Museum Het Schip: visit two worlds in one day. The opulent life of the canal-side residents and the simpler life of the workers in a housing complex in Amsterdam-West. Two stories that together paint a picture of Amsterdam through the centuries.
