Resting peacefully in Amsterdam’s West lies Sint Barbara. This Catholic cemetery is more than just a resting place. It’s a historical treasure a green haven nestled between bustling city life and railway lines. Established in 1893 Sint Barbara opened its gates. This was after the original cemetery proved too small. Monseigneur H Poppen the dean of Amsterdam officiated the opening ceremony. The first burial followed just days later.
The land itself a former part of the Boerenhofstede Leeuwendael farm was auctioned in 1888. The winning bid 39753.86 guilders secured the twelve-hectare plot. The architect Adrianus Bleijs designed the cemetery. The total cost including land and his salary was almost 230000 guilders. A significant sum at the time.
Sint Barbara has a unique history. It became a final resting place for several individuals. Many were important figures in the Roman Catholic Church. They were reinterred from the older De Liefde cemetery. Since 1899 three graves hold the remains of the Begijnhof’s Beguines. The last Beguine Agatha Kaptein Sister Antonia was buried there in 1971.
Even in recent times Sint Barbara continues to attract notable figures. Frank Starik a writer and poet found his final rest here in 2018. He was the driving force behind the Poule des Doods a group that organized funerals for those without surviving relatives. Starik was also a friend to well-known poet Simon Vinkenoog. Vinkenoog is also buried at Sint Barbara.
The cemetery’s rich history is commemorated. A 2018 publication titled Begraven en Zorgen celebrated its 125th anniversary. The first copy was given to Bishop Jos Punt a fitting tribute to this special place.
Famous individuals are buried here. Joseph Alberdingk Thijm a writer rests here. So do prominent families like the Bensdorps and the Boldoots. Actor Burny Bos and the much-loved actor Willem Nijholt found their final resting places within Sint Barbara’s tranquil grounds. Many other notable Amsterdammers including actors journalists and artists are also laid to rest here. This quiet sanctuary continues to be a significant part of Amsterdam’s heritage. Its history is deeply interwoven with the city’s religious and cultural past. Walk through its pathways and reflect on the lives lived and memories cherished. The peace of Sint Barbara is palpable. You feel the city’s history resting beneath your feet.