Until the 14th century, Ouderkerk was the administrative center of Amstelland. Its history can be explored through different themes: Beth Haim represents four centuries of Jewish history, while the townscape, museum and waterscape offer further cultural and historical perspectives.
Beth Haim: Jewish History and Visiting
The site for Beth Haim was acquired in 1614; the cemetery was officially opened in 1616. It is still used by the Portuguese-Israelite Community in Amsterdam. About 28,000 graves are spread across four hectares. Beth Haim is listed as Rijksmonument 31967.
A historical walking tour takes you through four centuries of Jewish history. Paths, stairs and bridges make the entire cemetery accessible. Beth Haim is open to visitors free of charge all year round; independent visits are possible, and guided tours can be booked by arrangement. The visitor app includes the “Rabbijnen route” and the “Koopliedenroute,” as well as 76 stories linked to graves or places in the cemetery.
Townscape, Museum and Architecture
The Historic Quarter forms the heart of Ouderkerk aan de Amstel’s protected townscape and is one of the oldest places in Amstelland. The war memorial stands at Dorpsstraat 14; it was unveiled on May 4, 1951. The Rodeamentoshuis, dating from 1705, is situated on the Bullewijk. In this house, bereaved family members walk seven circuits around the deceased’s coffin.
The Museum Amstelland is housed in six former deaconry houses dating from 1733. Its permanent exhibition covers the history of Ouder-Amstel; check current exhibition details before your trip. At the museum, visitors can pump water themselves. As soon as they stop, the water area fills up again; this display refers symbolically to water management.
The Sint Urbanuskerk stands in Ouderkerk aan de Amstel, near the mouth of the Bullewijk where it flows into the Amstel. The well-preserved Neo-Gothic church dates from the third quarter of the 19th century and is a characteristic part of architect P.J.H. Cuypers’s early work.
Walks, Polders and Activities Nearby
The history of the landscape is also tied to water: the De Zwaan windmill once maintained the water level in the 356-hectare Klein-Duivendrechtse and Binnenbullewijkerpolder. Near Ouderkerk, the Ouderkerkerplas recreation area offers beaches, a day-use campsite, a nature area, an equestrian route, and several walking and cycling trails.
For water activities, there is a boat ramp and waterside areas for surfing, canoeing, sailing small boats and diving. Check water access and seasonal restrictions before your trip. The “Historische Wandelingen” comprises three signposted walks in the village and just outside Ouderkerk. Another option is the “Rondje groen Amstelland” cycling route: it starts at the Kerkbrug over the Bullewijk and offers a view of Ouderkerk aan de Amstel. Check route conditions before setting out.
Discover more destinations: Duivendrecht.
Return to the main travel overview: Ouder-Amstel.
