Tour idea: Meet Johannes Vermeer

The 17th-century master of light, Johannes Vermeer, lived and worked his entire life in Delft, where he created an estimated 45 paintings, of which 37 still exist. Vermeer is one of the most enigmatic painters in history, with a technical perfection and use of color that continue to captivate.

Born in 1632 in the prosperous city of Delft, Vermeer’s father was an art dealer. He showed remarkable talent in art from a young age, which his father encouraged. At the age of 21, he married Catharina Bolnes and began creating paintings that depicted everyday life and portraits, characterized by remarkable detail and mastery of light.

Delft, with its picturesque canals and historic buildings, greatly inspired Vermeer. The city serves as the backdrop for masterpieces such as "View of Delft." A stroll through the historic center of Delft takes you back to the 17th century and allows you to experience the past of this great master.

Vermeer Centrum Delft

This is THE place to get to know Johannes Vermeer, painter from the 17th century, better!

The Vermeer Centrum in Delft is the only place in the world where you can admire actual-size reproductions of Johannes Vermeer's complete oeuvre. You can find out all about Vermeer’s life, family, work and the city that so inspired him.

The master painter from Delft is particularly famous for his stunning depiction of sunlight. Step into the light studio, imagine you are Vermeer at work in the 17th century and try to discover his secret.

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Old and New Church

Old Church

Johannes Vermeer passed away in the second week of December 1675, after a brief illness, while he had eight children at home. His burial was recorded in the register of the Old Church in Delft on December 15, where he was interred in his mother-in-law's family grave. In the 19th century, this grave was disturbed, but with the rediscovery of his work in that same century, interest in his final resting place grew. In 1975, a small gravestone was placed, and in 2007, in honor of the three hundredth anniversary of his death, a monumental tomb was erected in the Old Church.

New Church

Vermeer’s life largely unfolded in and around the Market; he was baptized in the New Church on October 31, 1632, where his family members are also buried, unlike himself.

Girl with a Pearl Earring workshop

In this workshop, you'll have the opportunity to create your own unique interpretation of this masterpiece by Johannes Vermeer, surrounded by beautiful Delft Blue pottery.

With guidance from experienced instructors, you'll learn techniques and the fascinating history behind Delft Blue. In a relaxed atmosphere, you'll start sketching and give the girl your own character with vibrant hues. By the end of the workshop, you'll have a personal artwork in your hands—a tangible reminder of a day filled with creativity!

Vermeer guided tour

Go back in time and explore the places connected to Vermeer during a guided walk. Visit his birthplace, the location where he created his famous painting 'View of Delft', and the St. Luke's Guild where he met with other artists. Let yourself be transported to the world of the master and discover more about his life and work.

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Time travel to the 17th century!

Become a masterpiece by Vermeer and let time stand still in the vibrant studios of Something Extra. Immerse yourself in the enchantment of his paintings: opt for a Stunning Portrait or choose the unique Step into a Painting Show, where you literally step into a painting from head to toe.

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Raise a Glass to Vermeer

Toast to a successful day by enjoying a special Girl with a Pearl Earring beer at the Koperen kat. Delft's oldest city brewery.

Tip! Spend the night in Delft and plan a visit to the Mauritshuis in The Hague the next day to admire more masterpieces.