Tour idea: Meet Johannes Vermeer
The 17th-century master of light, Johannes Vermeer, lived and worked all his life in Delft, where he produced an estimated 45 paintings, 37 of which still exist. Vermeer is one of history's most enigmatic painters, with technical perfection and use of colour that continue to fascinate.
Vermeer was born in 1632 in the prosperous city of Delft, where his father was an art dealer. He showed talent in art at an early age, which his father encouraged. At the age of 21, he married Catharina Bolnes and began creating paintings depicting everyday life and portraits, characterised by remarkable detail and light control.
Delft, with its picturesque canals and historic buildings, inspired Vermeer immensely. The city forms the background of masterpieces such as "View of Delft." A walk through the historic centre of Delft will take you back to the 17th century and let you experience this grand master's past.
Tour idea: 24 hours - Meet Johannes Vermeer
Vermeer Centrum Delft
The Vermeer Centrum Delft is the only place in the world where you can admire Vermeer's entire oeuvre in full size (reproductions). Here you will discover everything about Vermeer's life, family, work and the city that inspired him so much.
The Delft master became especially famous for his stunning rendering of sunlight. Step into the light studio and step into the shoes of the 17th-century painter for a moment and try to discover his secret.
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Old and Nieuwe Kerk
Oude kerk
Johannes Vermeer died in the second week of December 1675, after a short illness, while at home with eight children. His burial was recorded in the burial register of the Oude Kerk in Delft on 15 December, where he was interred in the family tomb of his mother-in-law. This grave was cleared in the 19th century, but with the rediscovery of his work in the same century, interest in his final resting place grew. A small tombstone was placed in 1975 and, in 2007, in honour of his three hundredth death anniversary, a mausoleum in the Oude Kerk.
Nieuwe Kerk
Vermeer's life played out largely in and around the Markt; he was baptised in the Nieuwe Kerk on 31 October 1632, where his family members are also buried, unlike himself.
Girl with a Pearl Earring painting workshop
In this workshop, you will have the chance to create your own unique interpretation of this masterpiece by Johannes Vermeer, surrounded by beautiful Delft Blue pottery.
With the guidance of experienced instructors, you will learn techniques and the fascinating history behind Delft Blue. In a relaxed atmosphere, you start sketching and give the girl your own character with colourful shades. At the end of the workshop, you will hold in your hands a personal work of art, a tangible reminder of a day full of creativity!
Guided Vermeer walking tour
Step back in time and discover the places associated with Vermeer on a guided walk. Among other things, visit his birthplace, the location where he made his famous painting 'View of Delft', and the Sint-Lucas guild where he met with other artists. Immerse yourself in the master's world and discover more about his life and work.
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Time travel to the 17th century
Become a Vermeer masterpiece and make time stand still in the lively studios of Something Extra. Immerse yourself in the magic of his paintings: go for a Beautiful Portrait or opt for the unique Step into a Painting Show, where you literally step into a painting from head to toe.
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Cheers to Vermeer
Toast to a successful day and enjoy a special Girl with a Pearl Earring beer at the Copper Cat.
Tip: Stay a night in Delft and take a trip to the Mauritshuis in The Hague the next day. There, admire two iconic paintings by Vermeer: the View of Delft and the Girl with a Pearl Earring.
