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Museum · Delft, Holanda Meridional
Vermeer Centrum Delft
Center dedicated to Johannes Vermeer, born in Delft in 1632. It has no original paintings, but displays the 37 paintings attributed to him in life-size reproductions, as well as his studio and painting techniques.
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 Vermeer Centrum Delft
Johannes Vermeer was born in Delft in 1632 and spent his entire life in the city. The Vermeer Centrum Delft was created to give the painter a presence in his hometown, since none of his paintings remained in Delft.
The center has no original works. Instead, it is the only place in the world where all 37 paintings attributed to Vermeer are shown together in life-size reproductions. The years each was painted are marked on the floor.
The other floors explain how he worked: light, color, perspective and the camera obscura, which visitors can try. Another room deals with the hidden love messages in the paintings, such as letters and musical instruments.
The building is on the Voldersgracht, on the site of the former Guild of Saint Luke, the painters' association of which Vermeer was a member and served as head.
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
About 1 to 1.5 hours.
Best time
Before going to Haia to see the originals at the Mauritshuis, or after, to compare. Any time works; check before you go.
How to get there
It is on the Voldersgracht, a 2-minute walk from the Markt and about 10 minutes from Delft station.
Tip
The nearest Vermeer originals are at the Mauritshuis, in Haia, a 15-minute train ride: Girl with a Pearl Earring and View of Delft. The Oude Kerk, where he was buried, is a few minutes' walk away.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Vermeer Centrum Delft
Does the Vermeer Centrum have original paintings?
No. It displays the 37 paintings attributed to Vermeer in life-size reproductions. The nearest originals are in the Mauritshuis, in Haia.
Is it worth visiting without originals?
For those who want to understand Vermeer's work and technique, yes: it's the only place with all the paintings together, and the explanation about light and the camera obscura is instructive.
Where is Vermeer buried?
In the Oude Kerk of Delft, a few minutes' walk from the Vermeer Centrum.