At Begijnhof 34 in central Amsterdam, Houten Huis is a wooden house dating to around 1425 and one of only two wooden houses left in the city. Its black facade, timber frame and distinctive window placement are best seen from the courtyard; the private home is not open to visitors. The surrounding Begijnhof offers a quiet pause among the city’s older buildings. Walk gently and keep your voice low, as people live within the courtyard.
A wooden house at Begijnhof
Houten Huis stands at Begijnhof 34, within the courtyard of the Begijnhof, a former religious community for single women. The house dates to around 1425 and is considered Amsterdam’s oldest surviving wooden house. It is one of only two wooden houses remaining in the city.
The Begijnhof sits in central Amsterdam, but its courtyard is notably quiet. Passing through the entrance brings you among older buildings, away from the city’s busy streets.
What to see from the courtyard
The house’s dark facade makes it easy to distinguish from the surrounding buildings. Its Gothic-style timber frame and unusual window placement are details to look for from outside. Houten Huis survived two major fires, adding to its importance as a rare piece of Amsterdam’s architectural past.
The building is a private residence and is not open for interior visits. Take in the exterior from the courtyard, where you can also pause among the Begijnhof’s well-kept grounds.
Visiting with care
People live in Begijnhof, so keep your voice low as you walk through. The courtyard is open from 9 AM to 6 PM. Sunday morning is a quieter time to visit, when services take place in the chapels.
FAQ
Can you go inside Houten Huis?
No. It is a private residence, so visitors can view the house from outside only.
Where is Houten Huis?
It is at Begijnhof 34 in central Amsterdam.
How old is Houten Huis?
The house dates to around 1425.
How long should you spend at Begijnhof?
Allow about 30 to 60 minutes to see the house and walk around the courtyard.
