Let your imagination run wild and design your own sea monster!
On luxurious European maps from the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries, you can sometimes spot the strangest sea creatures. Today, they may seem unbelievable, but back then, it wasn’t so strange that people considered their existence quite plausible. Much of the world was still unknown to Europeans: distant continents and vast oceans full of fantastic creatures were waiting to be (supposedly) discovered.
During this period, people also began collecting and structuring knowledge about nature. Observations of animals and plants were shared, but were never fully reliable or objective. The result? Fascinating books and nautical maps filled with illustrations and stories of imaginary creatures.
Practical information
For whom: Fun for children aged 4 and up, accompanied by parents or guardians. Suitable for English-speaking visitors as well.
When: The holiday workshops take place during the summer holiday period for the Central Netherlands region (Saturday 18 July to Sunday 30 August 2026), daily from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm. The last tickets of the day are issued for the 3:30–4:30 pm time slot.
Cost: Participation is free with a valid admission ticket (a museum ticket or free admission with, for example, a Museumkaart).
Tickets: Collect a ticket at the museum reception desk. This ticket gives you one hour to take part in the holiday workshops. Tickets are only available on the day of your visit; advance reservations are not possible. One ticket is valid for up to two parents/guardians and four children. The final ticket issued each day is for the 3:30 pm time slot.
After-school care groups (BSOs): Groups are welcome to participate in the Design Your Own Sea Monster and Build a Kaleido Fidget workshops after making a reservation. We can accommodate one supervisor for every six children.
