Roaming the Cells @ Museum of the Mind

There are plenty of great museums in Haarlem, but Museum of the Mind, the national museum of psychiatrics, is particularly special.

From the back exit of Haarlem station, it’s only a five-minute walk via the Kennemerplein.

Wander through an original cell from the 16th century. In the Museum of the Mind, these are still completely intact.

The Museum of the Mind, operated by the Dolhuys Foundation, is situated in a former leprosy, plague and madhouse from the early 1300s. This was a home for the insane and people who suffered from contagious diseases. In the museum, you can see the original cells from the 16th century. The collection also includes the historic heritage of various GGZ (mental healthcare) institutions. The museum also has changing exhibits on display that focus on the value of deviating behaviour. One thing is clear: this museum offers food for thought.

Hey, did you know?

In addition to the historic heritage, the Museum of the Mind also features an art collection. Outsider Art is also special; a collection of works of art that are made from a personal passion. In the Hermitage in Amsterdam, you can view this collection in the Outsider Art Museum, which is part of the Museum of the Mind.