Hofje van Willem Heythuijsen

Hofje front door on the East side of the Haarlemmerhout park, showing the narrow passage to the garden on the South side of the T-shaped complex. Above the door, the plaque reads; "'t Hofken van Wilhelm van Heythuysen, 1651". On the left, the taller tower-like building is the oldest structure standing.

Hofje garden on the South side of the T-shaped complex. In the back, the taller tower-like building can be seen.

Painting of Willem van Heythuijsen by

The later copy which once hung in the regents room in Haarlem

Painting of Tieleman Rosterman by Frans Hals, the first regent of the hofje

Hofje van Willem Heythuijsen is a notable example of a Dutch hofje, which are traditional almshouses or courtyards surrounded by small houses, found in the Netherlands. This particular hofje is located in the city of Haarlem, and it stands as a significant piece of Dutch architectural and social history. The Hofje van Willem Heythuijsen was founded in 1650 by Willem Heythuijsen, a wealthy cloth merchant and art collector from Haarlem, as a charitable institution to house elderly women.

History

Willem Heythuijsen, born in Haarlem in the late 16th century, made his fortune in the cloth trade. He was also known for his patronage of the arts, notably being painted by the famous Dutch painter Frans Hals. Towards the end of his life, Heythuijsen decided to give back to his community by establishing a hofje for the accommodation of elderly women in need. This act of philanthropy was not uncommon among the wealthy merchants of the Dutch Golden Age, who often founded hofjes as a means of providing for the less fortunate, securing their own legacy, and sometimes ensuring a place of burial within the hofje's chapel or church.

The Hofje van Willem Heythuijsen was originally built outside the city walls of Haarlem, but as the city expanded, it became part of the urban fabric. The hofje has been renovated and expanded several times throughout its history, but it has always maintained its original purpose of serving as a residence for elderly women.

Architecture

The architecture of the Hofje van Willem Heythuijsen is typical of Dutch hofjes, featuring a central courtyard surrounded by small, modest houses. These houses were designed to be functional and comfortable, providing a dignified setting for their inhabitants. The entrance to the hofje is usually marked by an ornate gate, leading into the tranquil courtyard, which often contains a garden. The layout and design of the hofje reflect the Dutch values of community, charity, and modesty.

Cultural Significance

The Hofje van Willem Heythuijsen is more than just an architectural landmark; it is a symbol of the social and cultural history of the Netherlands. Hofjes like this one played a crucial role in the social welfare system of the Dutch Golden Age, providing housing and care for the elderly, the poor, and the sick. They are a testament to the philanthropic spirit of the Dutch merchant class and their commitment to social responsibility.

Today, the Hofje van Willem Heythuijsen continues to serve its original purpose, housing elderly residents in a peaceful and supportive environment. It is also a point of interest for visitors to Haarlem, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and the enduring legacy of Dutch charitable institutions.

See Also

• Dutch Golden Age
• Frans Hals
• Social history of the Netherlands
• Architecture of the Netherlands