Amstelkring Museum Amsterdam
There are a number of remarkable things about this museum. But perhaps none is more intriguing than the reason for which it exists. In spite of the famed tolerance of Amsterdam throughout the centuries, in the years following the Protestant Reformation city law prohibited religious services other than those of the Dutch Reformed Church. As a result, Catholics, Mennonites, Jews and even Lutherans had to worship in secret locations. Our Lord in the Attic (Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder) is one of the city's most famous clandestine Catholic Churches. From the outside, the building appears to be just another canal-house. But the three houses that comprise the museum were built in the 17th century for the purpose of hiding a cathedral.

Here, at the top of a steep, narrow stairway, you will find a large baroque altar, statues and pews for 150 parishioners. Services and weddings are still conducted here. The tour includes a look at the lower floor of the house as well, but you will, no doubt, carry the images of the church with you for a long time.