Paushuize (Pope House), Utrecht

Paushuize (Pope House), Utrecht

The house at the corner of Kromme Nieuwegracht and Achter Sint Pieter was built for Adriaan Floriszoon Boeyens in 1517. When the house was built, he was in Emperor Charles V of Spain's court, and he wanted to move back to Utrecht one day.

Instead, Adriaan was elected pope in 1522 and died a year later, never to return to the house in Utrecht. Pope Adrian VI was the only Dutch pope.

After the Reformation, the house was purchased by private individuals. Each owner added a few touches to make the house their own, adding facades and Renaissance-style additions. At one point, the house was operated as a restaurant with lodgings.

In its recent history, the house has been used for a wedding venue and meeting space. In addition, the University of Utrecht has used the space from time to time, and in 1985 Pope John Paul II visited here.

Technically, the house is a Renaissance design with Gothic influences. Nevertheless, the interior is beautifully done, with four salons and even a ballroom.

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Paushuize (Pope House) on Map

Sight Name: Paushuize (Pope House)
Sight Location: Utrecht, Netherlands (See walking tours in Utrecht)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Utrecht, Netherlands

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