Huis met de Kogel
A historic Alkmaar house named for a cannonball that struck its facade during a 1573 siege, offering a unique glimpse into Dutch history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Huis met de Kogel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Alkmaar house named for a cannonball that struck its facade during a 1573 siege, offering a unique glimpse into Dutch history.
"A magnificent national monument with real history, a must-see for those interested in Alkmaar's past."
📸 Capture the Cannonball
Get that iconic shot of the cannonball! Best light is often in the morning.
🚶♂️ Explore Appelsteeg
Don't just see the house, stroll down the charming Appelsteeg for more historic views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cannonball Itself
Facade facing the canal
The iconic cannonball embedded in the facade, a tangible reminder of the 1573 siege and a unique historical artifact.
Historic Appelsteeg
Street where the house is located
Wander down Appelsteeg, a picturesque street that complements the historical significance of the 'Huis met de Kogel'.
Alkmaar's Canal Views
Along the canal
Enjoy the charming canal views that surround the 'Huis met de Kogel', offering a glimpse into traditional Dutch cityscapes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Huis met de Kogel
Understanding the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Cannonball
Get that iconic shot of the cannonball! Best light is often in the morning. 
🚶♂️ Explore Appelsteeg
Don't just see the house, stroll down the charming Appelsteeg for more historic views.
📜 Understand the Legend
Learn the story behind the cannonball for a richer appreciation of this historic site.
🏠 Consider a Stay
The 'Huis met de Kogel' can be rented for a unique private getaway!
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Cannonball
Get that iconic shot of the cannonball! Best light is often in the morning.
🚶♂️ Explore Appelsteeg
Don't just see the house, stroll down the charming Appelsteeg for more historic views.
📜 Understand the Legend
Learn the story behind the cannonball for a richer appreciation of this historic site.
🏠 Consider a Stay
The 'Huis met de Kogel' can be rented for a unique private getaway!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the 'Huis met de Kogel' a fascinating historical landmark, particularly for its unique name and the legend of the cannonball. While some find it a brief but interesting stop, others appreciate its historical context and the charm of the surrounding Appelsteeg and canals. It's considered a nice addition to exploring Alkmaar's historic center.
"It is a nice walk in the centrum of Alkmaar. You can find many beautiful buildings.
House with the bullet
It is not known when the house was built; it is suspected that it was built shortly before the siege of Alkmaar (1573).
It is known that one of the first residents was Jan Arendszoon. He was one of the first hedge preachers of the present-day Netherlands.
All his family members were unharmed when the bullet hit his house. According to a legend, the 40-pound bullet went straight through the facade on impact.
Inside the building, it would have destroyed a chair on which a daughter of Jan Arentsz was spinning, the spinning wheel and the washtub in which Jan Arentsz' wife was washing."
Edith Burger
"A nice historical house, well kept and has real history to it. This whole area has thus historical look and feel. Really nice."
ユージトム
"The cheese town in Holland, close to de WAAG. Bullet House..Spanish invasion history !"
de moel petrus
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Huis met de Kogel is located in the heart of Alkmaar's city center, easily accessible by foot from the main train station. Simply follow signs towards the historic center and the canals.
Parking in Alkmaar's city center can be challenging. It's recommended to use public parking garages like 'Parkeergarage De Vest' or 'Parkeergarage Stationsplein' and walk to the house.
Yes, Alkmaar is well-connected by train. From Alkmaar station, it's a pleasant 10-15 minute walk to the Huis met de Kogel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Huis met de Kogel is a historical building visible from the outside. While there isn't a ticket to view the facade, special events or private rentals may have associated costs. +1
As the cannonball is part of the exterior, it can be viewed at any time. However, if there are specific exhibitions or tours, check local listings for their operating hours.
Viewing the exterior of the Huis met de Kogel is free. If you are interested in renting the property or attending a special event, pricing will vary.
The Huis met de Kogel can be rented for private events and stays, offering an exclusive experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Late morning often provides good lighting on the facade, making the cannonball stand out. Early morning or late afternoon can also offer beautiful light along the canal.
Generally, exterior photography is allowed. However, if you are considering renting the property or attending an event, inquire about specific photography policies.
The canal side offers great perspectives of the house, and the charming Appelsteeg street itself is very photogenic.
🎫 📜 History & Significance
The house, likely built before the 1573 siege of Alkmaar, got its name from a Spanish cannonball that struck its facade. Legend says the cannonball went straight through the house, narrowly missing residents. +1
It is suspected that the house was built shortly before the siege of Alkmaar in 1573.
It's a national monument that survived a significant historical event, the Siege of Alkmaar, and its name tells a dramatic story of resilience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making a day of it by exploring other child-friendly attractions in Alkmaar, such as the National Cheese Museum, which is also located in the historic center. The canals offer a picturesque backdrop for family photos.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take time to appreciate the architectural details, such as the wooden facades, and understand its context within the broader history of the Eighty Years' War. Exploring the surrounding historic streets and canals will further enrich your understanding of Alkmaar's past.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1Enjoy leisurely strolls along the picturesque canals, discover hidden courtyards, and savor the romantic ambiance of Alkmaar's historic center. The house itself provides a cozy and unique setting for a special occasion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Cannonball
The cannonball itself is a tangible piece of this history, often visible embedded in the building's exterior, serving as a constant reminder of the city's past struggles and triumphs. Visitors often express fascination with this direct link to a historical conflict.
While the exact details of the event are steeped in legend, the story adds a compelling narrative to the architectural significance of the building, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts visiting Alkmaar.
Architectural Features and Context
This architectural style is characteristic of older Dutch buildings, designed to maximize living space while minimizing costs. The house's location along the canal also provides a picturesque setting, typical of many historic Dutch towns.
Its preservation and the continued interest in its history, particularly the story of the cannonball, highlight its importance as a cultural heritage site. The surrounding area, with its canals and other historic buildings, contributes to the overall charm and historical atmosphere of Alkmaar.
Experiencing the Huis met de Kogel Today
+1For those interested in Alkmaar's heritage, the house is part of a broader historical landscape. A walk through the city center, particularly along Appelsteeg and the canals, reveals numerous beautiful buildings and offers a glimpse into the past.
During events like Open Monumentendagen, there might be special access or guided tours, providing deeper insights into the house's history and architecture. Checking local event calendars is recommended for visitors interested in these opportunities.
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