Utrecht, Netherlands: Museum of Saint Catherine

One of the more interesting museums in Europe is located in the city of Utrecht, the Netherlands. Named after Saint Catherine of Alexandria, it offers a glimpse into Christian art in the Netherlands over the centuries.

Although not specifically Catholic, we include it here because it is a unique combination of both Catholic and Protestant items.

The permanent collection includes vestments, altar pieces, manuscripts, statues and art from the golden age of Dutch art with works by such artists as Jan van Scorel, Rembrandt and Frans Hals.  There are also works by more recent artists such as Jan Toorop, Shinkichi Tajiri and Marc Mulders

The building that houses the museum was originally a monastery for members of the Order of the Knights of St. John. It later became the city’s first teaching hospital and then went on to be used for other purposes.

In 1979 it was re-opened as a museum. There are rotating exhibits, various art classes and lunch lectures throughout the year.

Click here for the official website of the Saint Catherine of Alexandria Museum in Utrecht.