For best experience please turn on javascript and use a modern browser!
You are using a browser that is no longer supported by Microsoft. Please upgrade your browser. The site may not present itself correctly if you continue browsing.
Campus Development Campus Development

Hortus Medicus Gasthuishof

The Gasthuishof is situated between the Allard Pierson and the Gasthuiskerk. The UvA is redesigning this courtyard garden to match the use of the surrounding buildings. The Allard Pierson will provide the main feature in part of this garden: a contemporary interpretation of the Hortus Medicus.
Hortus Medicus Gasthuishof
The Gasthuishof: situated between the Allard Pierson and the Gasthuiskerk.

Last updated: 2 April 2026

In the 17th century, a garden of medicinal plants existed in or near the Gasthuishof. Doctors and apothecaries studied herbs and plants and taught their medicinal uses. The Allard Pierson aims to re‑establish this Hortus Medicus at this historic location.

  • Our ambition

    We aim to create a Hortus Medicus in the Gasthuishof: a green oasis of calm, reflection and science.

    The ambitions for the Hortus Medicus are as follows:

    • The Hortus Medicus, a garden of historical medicinal plants, forges a link between heritage and the future, between science and society.
    • The Hortus Medicus is a place for research, teaching, reflection and meeting.
    • It is both a quiet spot and a green oasis in the heart of the city centre, open to students, researchers, local residents and visitors.
  • Construction works

    The soil in the Gasthuishof is contaminated, and a Hortus Medicus requires clean, suitable soil. The UvA is therefore investing in soil remediation. Both the remediation and the redesign of this part of the courtyard may cause noise and other disturbance for UvA staff and for immediate neighbours (businesses and residents). The UvA will inform those concerned in advance. Local businesses may also experience disruption from construction traffic, even though most transport will take place by water.

    Want to stay informed about the constructions works? Sign up for local area updates and select the areas you would like to receive news about (in Dutch).
  • Timeline

    Schedule as at December 2025

    Q4 2025

    • Start of design phase
    • Community survey
    • Community walk‑in session (see report)
    • Completion of sketch design

    Q1 2026

    • Draft Final Design completed
    • Appoint specifications writer
    • Final Design completed
    • Start permit procedures
    • Deliver final specifications
    • Prior notice of tender

    Q2 2026

    • Evaluate and announce contract award
    • Start of construction works

    Q4 2026

    • Planting
Crowdfunding; paint the heart of Amsterdam green

The Allard Pierson Museum is launching a crowdfunding campaign to restore the Hortus Medicus, which was located in the courtyard garden in the seventeenth century. Will you help to bring greenery back to this spot in Amsterdam's city center?

Lees verder over de actie