Nederland - Dordrecht, Arend Maartenshof

A “hofje” is a Dutch word for a courtyard with almshouses around it. They have existed since the Middle Ages. Dordrecht has several “hofjes”.

Arend Maartenshof was founded in 1625 by Arend Maartenszoon in an attempt to shake off his bad reputation in the city. The entrance is through a lavishly decorated renaissance gate. Atround a courtyard with centuries old trees and a well are 38 houses built, which were destined for poverty-stricken women and widows of soldiers.

Since the 1980s, admission rules for the cottages have been relaxed. But two rules of the old founder stand: residents must be of impeccable conduct and they must lovingly care for the living environment. The municipality of Dordrecht bought the Arend Maartenshof at the end of the 20th century and carried out a complete renovation.