Bossuhuizen

Who is this a good site for?

For those exploring Hoorn on foot and keen to look beyond the high street. The Bossuhuizen fit perfectly into a city walk past the harbour, the Grote Oost and the Hoofdtoren. Also ideal for visitors who love history, architectural facades and places with a story to tell.

When will you visit here?

Pop in here whilst taking a stroll through Hoorn old town. You’ll see the façade stones best during the day, especially if you’re walking from the harbour towards the Grote Oost. Take a moment at the corner of the Slapershaven – there, the story is literally written into the wall.

What to expect.

Three old buildings, close to the harbour, with façade stones that almost read like a comic strip. They depict scenes from the Battle of the Zuiderzee in 1573. It was then that the Geuzen defeated Admiral Bossu’s Spanish fleet at Hoornse Hop. No museum gallery is needed. Here, the façade tells the story all by itself.

Practical information

You can view the Bossuhuizen from the street. Plan for a short stop during your walk, or take a little longer if you want to have a good look at the reliefs. The buildings are situated on the corner of Slapershaven and Grote Oost, in Hoorn historic city centre. You cannot park directly in front of the façades; please use a nearby car park or garage and walk into town. Dogs are welcome, provided you stay outside. No information is available regarding food, drink or indoor accessibility, as this is not a regular visitor attraction with a public entrance.

When are you welcome?

You can see the Bossuhuizen as you walk through the town. The façades are visible from the street. No public visitor information has been found regarding visits to the buildings themselves.

Our tip for your visit

Don’t rush past. Stand on the opposite side of the road and look up at the reliefs. Then you’ll see more clearly why these houses belong to Hoorn : water, struggle and civic pride carved in stone.