Step into the tranquil embrace of the Hofje van Noblet. This hidden gem in Haarlem whispers tales of generosity and legacy. Built in 1760 it stands as a testament to the Noblet family’s enduring philanthropy. Leonard Noblet and his sisters Sara and Geertruida left a remarkable inheritance. They created a haven for elderly unmarried women.
The Hofje van Noblet wasn’t always here. The Noblets originally hailed from Amsterdam. Eleazar Noblet their father acquired the estate Haerlem en Spaargesigt in 1737. It was in this garden that the hofje would rise. The sisters and their brother having no heirs decided their family home should become a home for others.
The Hofje van Noblet initially housed twenty women. Ten hailed from Haarlem. The other ten were from Amsterdam. Each woman had to be at least fifty years old unmarried and a member of the Dutch Reformed Church. The Hofje van Staats nearby managed the Hofje van Noblet’s affairs. A portion of the original Noblet family house became the supervisor’s residence. Another part served as housing for the regents.
The main entrance faces the Spaarne river a canal. A back entrance leads to what is now Parklaan formerly Achter Nieuwe Gracht. The family’s coat of arms graces the facade. A small courtyard garden provides a tranquil space. The original house has its own entrance on Hooimarkt. The building now houses portraits of regents and items from the Hofje van Staats’ history.
In 1992 renovations reduced the number of houses from 20 to 16. The changes were made to meet modern living standards. The Hofje van Noblet along with the Hofje van Staats is now under the care of a foundation. This ensures the hofjes’ preservation and continues the Noblet family’s legacy of care and community. The Hofje van Noblet stands as a timeless testament to the enduring spirit of philanthropy and community. It’s a place where history meets tranquility a serene oasis within the heart of Haarlem.