Teylers Hofje

Teylershofje-binnentuin

Teylers Hofje is a notable almshouse located in Haarlem, Netherlands. It was established in 1787, following the last will and testament of Pieter Teyler van der Hulst, a wealthy cloth and silk merchant, and a prominent banker. Teyler's legacy was aimed at the improvement of society through science, religion, and the arts, which also led to the foundation of the Teylers Museum, the oldest museum in the Netherlands. The Hofje is one of the many hofjes in Haarlem, which were built to offer housing for elderly women, and it continues this function to this day.

History[edit | edit source]

After the death of Pieter Teyler van der Hulst in 1778, his will stipulated that a portion of his fortune should be used to construct a hofje for elderly women. The Teylers Hofje was specifically intended to house single or widowed women of the Protestant faith, a common requirement for hofje residents in that era. The construction began in 1784 and was completed in 1787. Unlike many contemporary hofjes which were often hidden behind residential buildings, Teylers Hofje was built with a grand facade facing the Spaarne river, showcasing its importance and the wealth of its founder.

Architecture[edit | edit source]

The architecture of Teylers Hofje is a fine example of the Dutch Classicism style, characterized by its symmetry, order, and the use of classical elements. The entrance gate is adorned with a bust of Pieter Teyler, and the interior garden is surrounded by 24 houses. These houses were designed to be comfortable and dignified accommodations for the residents, reflecting Teyler's vision of promoting welfare through his philanthropy.

Current Use[edit | edit source]

Today, Teylers Hofje continues to serve its original purpose as a residence for elderly women. It is managed by a foundation that oversees the maintenance and administration of the property, ensuring that it remains a peaceful and dignified place for its inhabitants. The Hofje is not generally open to the public, preserving the privacy and tranquility of its residents.

Cultural Significance[edit | edit source]

Teylers Hofje is an important cultural and historical monument in Haarlem. It exemplifies the philanthropic spirit of the 18th century, where wealthy individuals played a significant role in social welfare. The Hofje is part of Haarlem's rich heritage of hofjes, which are an integral aspect of the city's social history and urban landscape. It also complements the mission of the Teylers Museum, by contributing to the cultural and scientific education through its existence and history.