Huis met de Hoofden, Renaissance canal house on Keizersgracht, Netherlands.
Huis met de Hoofden is a Renaissance house on Keizersgracht distinguished by six stone heads carved into its facade, representing Apollo, Ceres, Mercury, Minerva, Bacchus, and Diana. The building displays the typical three-story structure of a prosperous Amsterdam merchant house with a stepped gable and generous windows.
The house was built in 1622 for stock trader Nicolaas Sohier and designed by architect Hendrick de Keyser. After de Keyser's death, his son Pieter completed the work.
The name refers to the six stone heads adorning the facade, representing classical gods. They reflect the wealth and taste of owners who drew inspiration from ancient Rome and Greece.
The building is located at Keizersgracht 123 and now houses the Embassy of the Free Mind with rotating exhibitions. Visitors can explore the interior spaces and special programs on art, music, and science by checking the current schedule.
The house preserves several original elements from the 17th century, including a stone portal and wooden door frames. A notably elaborate grand staircase from the late 18th century marks the interior of the building.
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