The Zwanenbroedershuis
Remnants of a rich past
What do King Willem-Alexander and the painter, Jeroen Bosch have in common? Both are members of the Illustrious Brotherhood of Our Blessed Lady: a ecumenical society founded in Den Bosch in 1318. Its members are also known as Zwanenbroeders - or Swan Brothers. The Brotherhood has owned a house on the Hinthamerstraat since 1483. DagjeDenBosch.com is delighted to show you inside.
Art at the Zwanenbroedershuis
The Brotherhood came into being in the 14th century, founded by a group of clergy in Den Bosch who were committed to the veneration of Mary and charitable work. As time went on, the Brotherhood became wealthier and wealthier. Evidence of this wealth can still be seen today in the Zwanenbroedershuis, where copious pieces of art as well as all kinds of other objects are on display, such as music books dating from the fifteenth century.
Cheers! Declares The King
The museum even contains William of Orange’s goblet. On the occasion of the Brotherhood’s 500th anniversary in 1818, the later King Willem II is asked to join. More royal Swan Brothers would follow after him: King Willem-Alexander, Princess Beatrix and Princess Irene now also carry the title.
Where does the name come from?
How did the Swan Brothers get their unusual name? The Brotherhood are said to have once enjoyed lavish meals. And what did they serve? Swan meat! The term ‘Swan Brother’ thus became a title of honour for influential individuals in high society.
Delve into Den Bosch’s past
When visiting Het Zwanenbroedershuis museum during your trip to Den Bosch, take note of the striking stylistic elements of this neo-Gothic building: the pointed arches, stained glass windows and rose windows are some to look out for. The DagjeDenBosch.com guides will be happy to tell you more about the rich heritage of the Zwanenbroedershuis. Definitely worth a visit!
Details
± 75 minutes
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday at 14.00 hrs.
Hinthamerstraat 94.
Prices:
€ 7,50 per person
€ 3,75 for 4 to 12 years-olds
free admission for children under the age of 4.
Reservation:
Booking fee € 0,50 p.p. with a maximum of € 10,00.
Internet: until 15 minutes prior to the activity.
Telephone: until 1 day prior to the activity:
via 0900 - 20 20 178 (€ 0,90 per call). On weekdays from 10.00 - 12.00 hrs. and from 13.00 - 15.00 hrs.
Notes:
This tour is only in Dutch
Groups
Maximum number of visitors per group: 15
± 75 minutes
Every day during the whole year.
Prices:
€ 7,50 per person with a minimum price of € 75,00 - booking fee € 5,00.
Reservation:
In advance until 1 week prior to the activity by telephone +31(0)73 - 613 50 98 or at the "Kring" information desk Parade 12.
Notes:
Tours in English and in German are available if reguired.