Was led hear by Rick Steves’ free audio tour of the Jordaan neighborhood. It’s a beautiful little “hof” that provides a welcome respite from the chaos of Amsterdam. Had the place entirely to myself.

This is the oldest 'hof' (almshouse) in Amsterdam that is still exist. The small houses surrounding the lovely courtyards were built to provide free housing for the needy of the time. It was established in 1614 and built in 1617. Behind the door, walk through a corridor in blue delf tiles, leads to a beautiful garden. There is a 18th century water pump. A gable stone with the words 'Vrede sij met U'(Peace be with you) obviously let you know that this hof is a Catholic one. Originally there were 33 houses and 66 women lived in it. In 1984 it was restored into regular houses. Only women live here