Hoofdwacht, Haarlem

De Hoofdwacht is a historical building on the Grote Markt in Haarlem, the Netherlands.

It was built in the 13th century. Traces in the wall indicate that this is one of the oldest buildings in the city. From 1250 to around 1350 it served as the first city hall of Haarlem. After that, various important families lived in the house. The lower part of the house has been used as a printer, a shop and a beer storage place.

The famous humanist Dirck Volckertszoon Coornhert has worked in the Hoofdwacht.

The facade dates from circa 1650.

On May 17th, 1755 the building was bought by the municipality to serve as headquarters for the city guards ("schutterij").

Since 1919 the building is occupied by the historical association "Historische vereniging Haerlem". From May till September it is open for the public in the weekends.