The Ritman Library Bibliotheca Philosophica Hermetica image

The Ritman Library Bibliotheca Philosophica Hermetica

Tourist attraction Museum Library

👍👍 Tucked discreetly away in a non-descript narrow street of Amsterdam's Jordaan district, this amazing library/museum is cloaked in the inconspicuous, low-key charm of the neighborhood; small stores and flats shoulder to shoulder. Without the small brass panel near the door, this gem of a library woul... People often mention books, museum, find,


Address

Keizersgracht 123, 1015 CJ Amsterdam, Netherlands

Website

www.embassyofthefreemind.com

Contact

+31 20 625 8079

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (29 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 (12) museum (6) find (6)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Joe C. 8 years ago on Google • 9 reviews
    Tucked discreetly away in a non-descript narrow street of Amsterdam's Jordaan district, this amazing library/museum is cloaked in the inconspicuous, low-key charm of the neighborhood; small stores and flats shoulder to shoulder. Without the small brass panel near the door, this gem of a library would be nearly impossible to find..perhaps destiny seeks those who eventually find this space. This magical journey begins with a press of the buzzer and the automatic door opening to this treasure trove of ancient illuminated, theosophical/philosophical and alchemical texts. This collection represents the life-long passion of Mr. Joost Ritman a local businessman and Rosicrucian. It is truly a national treasure, in my opinion on par with the Rembrandts of the nearby Rijksmuseum. So who might find this museum intriguing? In my case, my interest in Carl Jung's idea of the 'Collective Sub-conscious' and the ancient symbols, archetypes and metaphors common to us all. For others perhaps an interest in ancient illuminated, 16th, 17th, 18th century texts. Indeed European History of Philosophy aficionados. Those with an interest in Dan Brown's books or Umberto Eco novels might find the library particularly intriguing. On the other hand, this library is in my opinion not for large groups wishing to tick the box on places visited in Amsterdam. There are indeed plenty of museums to accommodate such groups. I'm an American who's lived in Amsterdam for nearly 13 years and only recently discovered the Ritman. An exceptional find!
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Carola S. 4 years ago on Google • 217 reviews
    A wonderful and magical place in the middle of Amsterdam by the canals. The employees were very nice and helped us with any questions. There are many very interesting books about alchemy, hermeticism, white magic, Rosicrucians, Freemasons, etc. To our surprise, most of the books were German books, so we had no problems with the content. There are lots of exciting pictures and drawings hanging on the walls and the interior design is very nice. Downstairs you can buy postcards, books, etc. and a small, stylish library-style coffee shop. If we're in the area again, we'll definitely come back! :-)
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Derek L. 5 years ago on Google • 44 reviews
    Very few places like this in the world. A mix of museum and book collection, ancient and modern. Books like the enormous, illustrated and endlessly fascinating "Secret Teachings for All Ages" can easily take an afternoon. Enjoy... and make friends on the tours!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anita G. 4 years ago on Google • 62 reviews
    The Embassy of the Free Mind is a library, museum and a platform for free thinking ! Saw a lot of very valuable paintings and old text here! Allow to take pictures of all the paintings and read the books! Amazing place!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Lea de S. 2 years ago on Google • 92 reviews
    Most of the museum was closed due to private events or renovations so, unfortunately, did not see much (but was still required to pay the full entry fee of 12.50)
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Candice Yu On On �. 4 years ago on Google • 126 reviews
    If you love life , interested to explore more ... a must go place ! Many good books and nice paintings ! Very interesting
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Paola R. 1 year ago on Google • 111 reviews
    I am a librarian and archivist and today I spent a good 103.50 for a guided tour, with 4 family members, in front of the reproduction of the building that hosts it, a tour of a study room where it was not possible to talk due to the presence of scholars and a room with few old books or reproductions. Maximum DISAPPOINTMENT!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gan R. 4 years ago on Google • 70 reviews
    I love this place! Thanks to Dan Brown for this huge investment! It is a must to visit in Holland
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Djelloul A. 3 years ago on Google • 131 reviews
    A charming, quiet and luxurious place where you can read the old precious books from another period time and feed your mind with the beautiness of it ! Don't hesitate to make a visitation, it really worth of it 👍

  • 5/5 Ferenc van D. 3 years ago on Google • 44 reviews
    Thei most wonderful secret of Amsterdam!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Marlies de W. 1 year ago on Google • 41 reviews
    Beautiful small museum with extensive research options. Many 'enlightening' lectures are organized that you can attend (info via website, Facebook and/or newsletter).
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Mark F. 4 years ago on Google • 12 reviews
    What a waste of time and money. There are two exhibit rooms downstairs both with reproductions of artwork. Upstairs there are books on display but not many. For 12.50 Euros I expected something better that what we saw.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 rono 2 years ago on Google • 12 reviews
    A special place that cannot be described in words! Anyone who is a seeker can find IT here, or at least be inspired by this overwhelming collection of hermetic literature.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Catherine 1 month ago on Google • 7 reviews New
    All the employees here are so kind, knowledgeable and helpful. I’ve come here twice already to study and it is always nice and cozy and entertaining to also see others pick up books and gain knowledge in their area of interest as well. This place is so underrated! I highly recommend

  • 5/5 james g. 4 years ago on Google • 1 review
    Great collection of Western esoteric books! Some Good exhibitions too. A must see if you are in Amsterdam.


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