openluchtmuseum

Openluchtmuseum, officially the Netherlands Open Air Museum (Het Openluchtmuseum), is an open-air museum in Arnhem, Gelderland, the Netherlands. It preserves Dutch life across several centuries by relocating historic buildings to a landscaped site, and by presenting them with period interiors and live demonstrations.

Founded in 1918 by the Dutch Museum Association, it is among the oldest open-air museums in Europe and one of the most visited in the Netherlands.

The collection comprises around eighty historic buildings relocated from across the country, including farmhouses, windmills, a school, a shop, and cottages. Interiors are furnished with authentic period items to illustrate daily life, work, and trades. In addition to static displays, craftspeople perform traditional tasks such as baking, carpentry, and textile work in various buildings.

The museum also maintains recreated streets and gardens that evoke different regional styles and time periods, with seasonal programs and special exhibitions. It seeks to preserve both material and intangible heritage of Dutch rural and urban life.

Location and accessibility: The site lies on the edge of Arnhem, near the Veluwe forest, in Gelderland. It is accessible by car, bus, and regional trains with a short transfer from Arnhem city center.