The Heilige Geesthofje in the centre of Naaldwijk,...

by Nicolaas Digi Art

In this photo, the Heilige Geesthofje in Naaldwijk. Naaldwijk is also known as the centre of the Westland. And speaking of centre, I can tell you that the hofje is also in the centre, of Naaldwijk. By passing through a picturesque gate, you enter the courtyard garden of the Heilige Geesthofje. The gate is easy to find, as it is located in the street, paved with old cobblestones, that takes you around the Oude Kerk. The Oude Kerk is located at Wilhelminaplein. With this information, you can surely find your way easily when visiting Naaldwijk. The hofje was built between 1627 and 1636. Client, yes, the Prince of Orange! That was Frederik Hendrik at the time. The west wing, on the right in the photo, was built first. It was intended to house ten old women. The eastern wing, on the left in the photo, was intended to house then old men. The chapel was built sometime around 1630 and it was used for preaching, weekly, until 1760. Today, the chapel is used as a wedding hall. Is that a nice location to start your married life, or not. Many tourists visit the hofje every year. Westlanders themselves, too, still like to come here, to go back in time for a moment, just for a moment in their minds.
This picture, in my opinion, deserves a place on a wall
Your wall....?