Herman Boerhaave (1668-1738)
The grave monument for Herman Boerhaave (1668-1738) is in the south transept. Boerhaave studied theology, philosophy, mathematics and medicine. In 1693, he received a doctoral degree in medicine from the University of Harderwijk. He became a professor in Leiden in 1709, worked in the Caecilia Hospital and became famous for his clinical lessons. His method of teaching attracted students domestically and abroad.In Prussia, the "Boerhaave method" was prescribed for all professors of medicine. Boerhaave gave medical advice to many prominent people all over the world, including the Tsar Peter the Great and the future Emperor Franz I of Austria.
The Neoclassical monument with the text "Sanctuary for the Beneficial Boerhaave" was erected in 1762 by Anthony Wapperon. The urn with the heads was inspired by Roman Antiquity, with the snake as a symbol for medicine and the burning torch as a symbol for life.
