Felix Meritis

Former society and name of its building, constructed in 1788 and designed by architect Jacob Otten Husly. The society focused on the promotion of arts and sciences in a broader sense than the artists collectives popular at the time. The society was abolished in 1888 and a printing company moved into the building. In 1969 the Shaffy Theater opened, which gained a reputation as a stopping place for the Dutch music avant-garde. In 1988, The Felix Meritis foundation was re-established in the building as a European center for art, culture and science.