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House museum · Zaandam, Holanda Setentrional
Czaar Peterhuisje
Small wooden house from 1632 where the Russian czar Peter the Great stayed in 1697 to learn shipbuilding; it is protected inside a stone pavilion.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Czaar Peterhuisje
The Czaar Peterhuisje is one of the oldest wooden houses in the Netherlands. It was built in 1632 as a worker's house, using timber from old ships. In August 1697, the Russian czar Peter the Great, then 25 years old, stayed there for eight days to learn about shipbuilding and industry in the Zaan.
Peter travelled incognito under the name Pjotr Michajlov and rented the house from a blacksmith who had worked in Russia. Over two metres tall and accompanied by men in Russian dress, he was recognised within a few days. Followed by onlookers, he moved to Amsterdam.
In the 19th century King William I bought the little house as a gift for his daughter-in-law, Anna Pavlovna, sister of Czar Alexander I. Since 1823 it has been protected by a stone pavilion. Inside there is a small exhibition with objects connected to the czar, such as a death mask, and portraits of Peter and Catherine I; in the garden stands a bust of Anna Pavlovna.
The house is managed by the Zaans Museum. It is usually open from Tuesday to Sunday, and the ticket office accepts cards only; check before you go.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 to 45 minutes.
Best time
In the afternoon, after visiting the Zaanse Schans, on the way back to Amsterdam. It usually closes on Mondays; check the opening times.
How to get there
It is on the Krimp, in central Zaandam, about a 15-minute walk from Zaandam station: follow the Gedempte Gracht to the Dam and turn right onto the Krimp.
Tip
Combine it with a walk along the Gedempte Gracht and the Dam, Zaandam's shopping centre. The little house is low and cramped; the interior is not wheelchair accessible.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Czaar Peterhuisje
Did Peter the Great really stay in that house?
He stayed there for eight days in August 1697, during the trip in which he came to learn shipbuilding.
Why is the house inside another building?
To protect the timber. The first stone covering dates from 1823.
Is the house open every day?
It usually opens Tuesday to Sunday. Check the opening times before you go.