Six enigmatic heads stare out from the Huis met de Hoofden. This grand canal house on Keizersgracht 123 isn’t just a pretty face. Its history whispers secrets of wealth ambition and a surprising legend.
Built in 1622 for Nicolaas Sohier a wealthy art-loving stock trader the Huis met de Hoofden boasts a Renaissance facade. Many believe architect Hendrick de Keyser designed it. However his son Pieter likely finished the work. The house stands as a Rijksmonument a testament to Dutch heritage.
Sohier’s time in the Huis met de Hoofden was short-lived. Tragedy struck. His wife and two daughters died. In 1634 he sold the property to Louis de Geer a powerful entrepreneur and industrialist.
The De Geer family owned the Huis met de Hoofden for four generations. They transformed it into a hub for intellectual exchange. Thinkers like Comenius and possibly even Spinoza graced its halls. The house became a melting pot of trade science philosophy and culture.
Those intriguing heads though What’s their story? A chilling tale speaks of six thieves beheaded by a maid. But a more likely explanation involves six Roman gods. Apollo Ceres Mercury Minerva Bacchus and Diana are represented in stone. Each bust symbolizes an aspect of life agriculture wisdom or trade. Louis de Geer the second owner likely added these statues. His placement of Mercury and Minerva suggests he saw himself as a wise and successful merchant.
After the De Geers the Huis met de Hoofden saw many uses. A school a conservatory and even a fur trader occupied the space. Today it houses the Embassy of the Free Mind a museum celebrating culture art and free thought.
The Huis met de Hoofden continues to captivate. Its story blends myth and reality. It reflects Amsterdam’s vibrant history its intellectual heart and the enduring power of a house with a captivating secret. This remarkable building is a true Amsterdam treasure a window to the past and a testament to the city’s enduring spirit.