The city of Haarlem has been a favourite subject among artists for centuries. In the 17th century, these views of the city, with St Bavo’s church towering on the horizon, were so popular, they even had a special name: ‘Haarlempjes’. These panoramas and city scenes are featured in this first exhibition dedicated to the 17th-century depiction of Haarlem.

Vision of Haarlem is a public declaration of the Frans Hals Museum’s love for Haarlem and the surrounding country as portrayed by leading artists such as Jacob van Ruisdael, Jan van Goyen, Gerrit Berckheyde and many others.

Experience the attraction the city of Haarlem exercised then and now. Discover how the landscape and the city have changed and take home a new vision of Haarlem.