Embassy of the Free Mind image

Embassy of the Free Mind

Tourist attraction • Museum • Historical landmark • Library

đź‘Ťđź‘Ť If you are into the history of ideas from the occult to alchemy, or just interested in different religions, come visit this library that celebrates the world of ideas. This museum has some beautiful rooms, but a visit is mostly centered around reading and enjoying the lovely garden. There is a sma... People often mention books, library, museum, garden, visit, Embassy, time, world, Amsterdam, free,


Address

Keizersgracht 123, 1015 CJ Amsterdam, Netherlands

Website

www.embassyofthefreemind.com

Contact

+31 20 625 8079

Rating on Google Maps

4.40 (163 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Friday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM to 5 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: books (17) library (16) museum (16) garden (9) visit (8) Embassy (8) time (8) world (7) Amsterdam (7) free (7)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Robin I. 2 years ago on Google • 695 reviews
    If you are into the history of ideas from the occult to alchemy, or just interested in different religions, come visit this library that celebrates the world of ideas. This museum has some beautiful rooms, but a visit is mostly centered around reading and enjoying the lovely garden. There is a small, cozy cafe as well The library on the 1st floor contains books on various religions and histories of ancient places and civilizations. Come here to relax, have a read and enjoy the garden on a sunny day. Great place to escape to... Especially if you are by yourself!
    17 people found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 5/5 Milo 3 months ago on Google • 242 reviews New
    I was aimlessly wandering through this lovely storied city, blissful to be in such a sophisticated place, when I happened upon this important institution. Noticing that this day would be my only opportunity to explore, they are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays (my two remaining days here) I immediately entered to discover and learn. The person at the front desk was immensely friendly, welcoming and informative. They have large lockers to store coats and bags so I could wander unencumbered. The building is beautiful and dates back to the 1600’s. The collection examines all organized religions, ancient and modern plus lesser known belief systems and its connection to scientific exploration. There are invaluable drawings, models, sculptures and objects that I found fascinating. The information was interesting and it offered a name to a belief system that I personally hold dear: Hermetic philosophy- believing that everything micro and macro are connected and so what we put out into the world comes back to us (simply put). Its a beautiful space, breathtaking really with a gorgeous cafe and amazing library. The library displays approx.600 books but in reality the institution holds 30000 including rare books that for obvious reason is not on display for public consumption. Theres a spectacular outdoor garden and in spring dozens of tulips are planted, tulips provided by the tulip museum a few blocks away. My only wish is that I would have been able to take a guided tour which they offer twice daily because theres so so much information and it would be easier to digest with an expert, oh well that just means I must return. I live in NYC which has hundreds of museums but I think this institution is the most important museum I have ever visited: a museum of the mind. Its just so interesting to see how humans have been thinking since the beginning of our existence- and humbling to know we haven’t changed much. We ask the same questions, have the same fears, imagine the same scenarios as our ancient ancestors. This institution is such a fitting place for Amsterdam: intelligent, curious, storied, elegant, inclusive, humbled, seeking, accepting, welcoming, collaborative and historic. Im a better person for having experienced this treasure 💜
    9 people found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 5/5 Rogier H. 4 years ago on Google
    Very interesting and unusual place. It has the status of museum, and there is a small collection of esoteric prints and an enormous vase painted in the Eastern Orthodox iconic tradition. However, the chief attraction is the library of esoteric books, based on the collection of Hermetic philosophical books of Dutch philanthropist Ritman. They also have a nice garden and a nice cafeteria to hang out.
    10 people found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 5/5 John B. 1 year ago on Google
    Open from 10 A.M. to 5 AM from Wednesday through Sunday, Embassy of the Free Mind , on Keizergracht, within short walking distance of Westerkerk, is one of the city's most unusual museums. Not recommended for children, although, in all fairness, special events for children are sometimes organised, the building exudes an air of reverence in which whispering seems to be the norm. Built in 1622 for a wealthy stockbroker and art collector by renowned Dutch architect Hendrick de Keyser, the house retains many of its original features, some glorious furnishings and artifacts, a superb library with over 25,000 books, and a beautiful garden. It is known as "The house with the heads" due to the facade being decorated with the heads of six Roman gods. The museum is a gathering place for free-thinkers with a collection dating back 2,000 years covering various aspects of alchemy, gnostic, hermetic, magic, masonic, mysticism, Rosicrucian and theosophical knowledge and much more. On offer are a number of specialised guided tours which are well worth taking. There are frequent exhibitions, special events and webinars.
    10 people found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 1/5 Max Z. 5 years ago on Google
    This is one of the worst museums I have ever been to in Europe. The "Embassy" is built up like this: There are four rooms with lot's of random drawings at the wall. In each room there's a guide book that kind of explains what you see in the drawings. However, they don't put the drawings into context. You get no understanding of why this drawing is important, what the artist thought and especially not how this is related to the "free mind". Considering the entry price (12ish €), this is clearly nothing more than a tourist trap.
    9 people found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 5/5 C P. 4 years ago on Google
    The Embassy of the Free Mind in Amsterdam is one of the BEST places to be in the whole wide world. To truly appreciate the museum and library, I suggest doing some research as to the resources available there. Perhaps, start with the documentary by Sara Ferro and Chris Weil entitled The Ritman Library, in which Mr. Ritman and the enthusiastic staff showcase not only the rare, first and early edition books and manuscripts, but also their love and passion for their incredible treasury of gnostic, hermetic, alchemical, Rosicrucian, mystic, Freemason and theosophical knowledge, to name a few. I was there for a week, and if the Embassy of the Free Mind was open every day, I would have spent every single day there. All the members of the staff are incredibly personable and made me feel at home. I know of no other museum that can boast of such a staff. The volunteers and regular visitors are so friendly, as well. The free and open communication and sharing of ideas, no matter the level of study, provides any student of life with the freedom and space to either begin a journey into the self or to add to one’s enlightenment in a safe and accepting space. There is no other place that can offer an amalgamation of diverse texts on wisdom. Some of the books in the Rare collection were published in the 1400s, but the knowledge goes back farther than the past couple of centuries. When you are ready to ask yourself what life is about, all you have to do is browse through the shelves, pick up a book, and scan the table of contents. You’ll be amazed at what you’ll find, and then you’ll realize it’s 5:00 PM, and you’ll want to come back for more. There are over 24,000 books, and you’ll want to go on all the tours – the regular Daily Tour, Rare Books, The Grail and any current exhibit. You’ll also want to visit the website to see which collections appeal to you. Chances are, they all will, because all the ideas are connected by threads that begin to bring ideas into focus, depending on who you are (or who you are becoming)! The building itself has a rich history, and the curators are more than happy to answer questions that you have. I, myself, don’t speak Dutch or any other European language, but I benefited greatly from the entire experience at the Embassy of the Free Mind. Everyone speaks English. Please remember that admission isn’t free – it’s your mind that is given the space to be free to explore and create your own understanding of the art (reproduced prints, texts). Imagine a place in which you can view something and engage in meaningful conversation with the text, with other people, and hopefully, with yourself. You can’t put a price tag on that. What places the Embassy of the Free Mind above all other museums and libraries is the fact that each of the 24,000+ texts and works of art (prints, sculptures) offers seeds of knowledge and wisdom from which any individual can grow and become aware of her/his place in the world and be connected with something greater. Perhaps, when you are so moved, you will even be inspired to act. Thank you to everyone at the Embassy of the Free Mind. I am grateful.
    7 people found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 5/5 T G. 11 months ago on Google • 30 reviews
    I love unique places with tons of character like this museum and library! The historic mansion is gorgeous and rich with illustrations from their many precious manuscripts. I brought my laptop and spent time writing in the lovely cafe and upstairs reading room. You can freely browse the book collection and enjoy the exhibits. Keep an eye out for unrestored corners of the building, my favorite!
    5 people found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 5/5 Andra N. 1 year ago on Google • 58 reviews
    For sure deserves more reviews and visibility, it’s an amazing, peaceful place,I totally loved it, the staff explained me really well how the museum was founded and what is the meaning behind it, the information written is very helpful as well. Also loved the flowers in the vases🫰🏼
    4 people found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 5/5 Sergei B. 5 months ago on Google • 21 reviews
    One of my favourite places in Amsterdam. It is very tranquil and inspirative. The former private library focused on mystical and esoteric knowledge, now a museum and public library. You may go there for study or to read books they placed in the public reading hall on the 2nd floor. Book selection is good and there are plenty of literature in English - from ancient philosophy (Plato, Plotinus, etc) to taro and mysticism and many other topics. If you are lucky you will meet a cat living there, the most mystic cat I've ever seen, no doubt. I saw this cat peacefully looking at ducks, scene of Eden which suits well for this place.
    3 people found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 5/5 Cristina C. 6 months ago on Google • 72 reviews
    I didn’t anticipate spending as much time as I did (2.5 hours), and could have still spent more time had I not needed to go to the airport. This is a tastefully maintained, high tech museum/ experience/ library/ cafe that promotes free thinking. It has options for both self guided tours (very comprehensive), and guided tours at specific times, a beautiful and usable library, and gorgeous garden. Also a gorgeous artefact as pictured below. This is a place I would love to revisit to be able to spend more time to get through all the readings on display at the very least, to then have a better browse of the library.
    2 people found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 5/5 Klaus Georg S. 7 months ago on Google • 50 reviews
    An absolutely special place! Amsterdam, somehow heaven and hell at the same time, has, in addition to its colorful, libertarian, sometimes even vulgar side, another, philosophical, heaven-longing view. This is what the Embassy of free mind, formerly also Biblioteca Hermetica, stands for. The rooms also contain very valuable editions of important documents from spiritual movements of the Middle Ages, the Baroque and modern times. The manuscript of Ibn al Arabi, or those of the “classic” Rosicrucians, are also very impressive. A visit can be like diving into another world, especially since contemporary Rosicrucians still meet here regularly today. Book a tour there and find out more...
    2 people found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 1/5 Lea J. 4 months ago on Google • 16 reviews
    I'm honestly sorry, but for me it was a very questionable experience...on the one hand, it wasn't clear to me beforehand that this is about an occult community that is co-financed through admission etc. (the name of the museum doesn't say it and isn't mentioned). Entrance to the house is clear...) Secondly, it is not particularly clear what pseudo-philosophical world views the Rosicrucians are concerned with (it is probably in the nature of such an order, but I would have expected accessible information to be the main task of a museum...) and thirdly, the books that could be read were almost exclusively in esoteric subject areas, unfortunately there was nothing there... the house is very nice to look at and also has a garden but unfortunately I have to say that I felt pretty ripped off after the visit...
    2 people found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 5/5 Sonia V. 1 year ago on Google
    Absolutely loved the place. Could have stayed there longer. And will most definitely re-visit when I’m next in Amsterdam. So many interesting books. Not for everyone so make sure you research it a bit before visiting.
    2 people found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 5/5 Laurent S. 1 year ago on Google
    Interesting,not for every one
    2 people found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 2/5 Linh M V. 4 years ago on Google
    Not the best experience. I was really excited for it but it was a flop. There wasn’t that much to see. A lot of art that you need to look for the description in a folder. Generally very old content. I’m not sure why they don’t want to include contemporary thinkers and ideas. Not much that can trigger a discussion. Their space is very nice looking though. It would be a great cafe space for discussion.
    2 people found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 4/5 Amz W. 4 months ago on Google • 83 reviews
    Really interesting photos / book exhibitions to look at, but maybe not quite worth the entry fee if you’re not interested in spending ages browsing / reading the books in the library
    1 person found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 5/5 Andreas R. 1 year ago on Google
    An Amazing place to learn and expand your horizons. Never have I been more sad to leave a museum. The showcase og the esoteric is handlet very well, and their studyhall is likewise a bless to visit.
    1 person found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 5/5 Cristina P. 3 years ago on Google
    Such an inspirational place. Small but amazingly deep. If you’re a high sensitive-artistic person this is your must in Amsterdam. There’s also a super cozy café where you can relax or meditate about everything you’ve seen. ( ps: the chairs are extra comfortable) Will definetely come back :) Thank you!
    1 person found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 5/5 Cezara S. 11 months ago on Google
    In the Great Hall I felt so peaceful and at home, calmer than I felt in years. My visit was short, only 2 hours, but I would have stayed longer, such a wonderful place for a tinker, away from the outside "noise" that we sometimes carry it within us. My honest wish is to comeback and enjoy a guided tour or a lecture and enjoy also the garden.
    1 person found this review helpful đź‘Ť

  • 5/5 Mireia LledĂł i L. 3 months ago on Google • 39 reviews New
    It is a very curious place to see. The staff is very friendly.

  • 5/5 Brett H. 7 months ago on Google
    In the great Dutch tradition of supporting Freedom of Thought, this lovely little Bibliothèque and library was a perfect stop on last day of my trip! And they had a nice cat lol! Thx!

  • 5/5 Jack C. 2 years ago on Google
    Came to learn about all the religions, philosophies, and Pseudo sciences of the world

  • 5/5 Peggy L. 4 months ago on Google • 11 reviews
    I found this place by passing by and love the stillness in the cafe on the ground floor. Tranquil..beautiful.

  • 5/5 Bear 1 year ago on Google
    Lovely place! Lots to read. Be prepared to stay all day.

  • 5/5 Manny 2 years ago on Google
    very friendly people working here. You can find here secret wisdom from the past that is valid now and in the future. For real truth is timeless.

  • 5/5 Daniel G. 9 months ago on Google
    A very special place to spend time whether it's looking at the displays, books, garden or enjoying refreshments. It really does feel like someone has opened up their home to you. I'd booked a tour as a way to orientate when first arriving and would recommend it to everyone. Kira showed us around the house, explaining the history and different areas and was so knowledgeable! After that I went back around the house at leisure. In the end I spent 4 hours there and it was the best place I visited whilst in Amsterdam. We need more places like this to free the mind!

  • 5/5 Bruna 1 year ago on Google
    Kind of place that is hard to come across in other cities. Really interesting, but definitely take the tickets with the guideance through the embassy as you probobly won’t understand the meaning of pictures alone. Worth a visit :)

  • 5/5 Damon B. 2 years ago on Google
    Fantastic place! I wish I had more time.

  • 5/5 Irma 1 year ago on Google
    To give a moment of your time to a stranger can mean to give them a sense of unity. I thank the staff for their kindness.

  • 5/5 Bellamy B. 2 years ago on Google
    A national treasure, a wonderful place to study when rare books are out on display.

  • 1/5 Brendan C. 2 years ago on Google
    Really disappointed to not have access to read let alone even see books from early centuries. A small reading room with a couple hundred books (all current) had to email in advance to view a special request.

  • 1/5 Kevin S. 2 years ago on Google
    Not a museum but a small library. Huge disappointment.


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