Kromme Rijn and Lek region in the Middle Ages

To visit Vianen and Wijk bij Duurstede is to step back in time. In Vianen, immerse yourself in the Middle Ages while exploring medieval Batenstein Castle and the old Town Hall. There are lots of fascinating buildings to see and medieval-themed events to enjoy, with reminders of Vianen's rich history around every corner. In the residential neighbourhood of De Hagen is a street named in honour of Vianen's patron, Willem van Duivenvoorde, whose efforts secured city rights for the settlement in 1336. He also established the centuries-old horse fair, which you can still experience today! Wijk bij Duurstede has a long history, in the Middle Ages gaining fame as one of Europe's leading mercantile centres, back then called Dorestad. Discover the rich past of this fortified city while strolling through its quaint streets, and see if you can spot all the interesting architectural features. The most important historic building is the Great Church, which towers over the heart of town and is impossible to miss!

Well worth a visit! - Marvellous medieval gems

  • ’t Klooster

    Thought to date from the end of the Middle Ages, this spot is now occupied by ’t Klooster Restaurant, named after a medieval Dominican convent founded in Wijk bij Duurstede in 1399.

    Read more
    ’t Klooster

  • Great Church in Wijk bij Duurstede

    This church owes its existence to the bishops of Utrecht. And it is a church with a tale to tell... Discover the whole story during a guided tour.

    Read more
    Great Church in Wijk bij Duurstede

Medieval celebration - Horse Fair in Vianen

In 1261 the bishop of Utrecht granted Vianen city rights. Ten years later, the newly-minted city was also granted the right to hold two annual fairs within the walls of the present-day centre. One was a livestock fair that brought horse traders to Vianen from far and wide, always also offering plenty of other entertainment. Organised by the city government as from 1725, after 1946 responsibility for the Horse Fair (Paardenmarkt) was transferred to the city's recreation committee, later renamed for the fair itself and made into a foundation in 1978. In the 1970s the horse trade fell into decline. In 1975, it was decided to hold a judged horse show as part of the fair. With a ban on selling small livestock in force by that time, a petting zoo was introduced to have smaller animals, too. These days, the Horse Fair is still held every year and is a medieval celebration not to be missed!

Historic routes

  • A day out with Hendrik, lord of Vianen

    A day out with Hendrik, lord of Vianen

    Take a trip back in time with Hendrik van Brederode, lord of Vianen. His ancestors ruled the free landed estate of Vianen starting from 1418, retaining control until the seventeenth century. Fortunately, some remnants have survived. To see them, come along!

    A day out with Hendrik van Brederode

  • Three Centres Route

    Three Centres Route

    This beautiful route takes you along country lanes and through the three main centres of the municipality of Wijk bij Duurstede: the city of Wijk bij Duurstede itself and the towns of Cothen and Langbroek.

    Discover the three centres

  • Vianen City Walk

    Vianen City Walk

    This city walk takes you through the rich history of Vianen, showing you all the loveliest spots in town. Enjoy the many fascinating stories and the inviting terraces of the friendly ‘free city’ of Vianen.

    Discover this route

This website uses cookies

This website uses cookies (Functional, Analytical, Marketing) that are required for the website to perform as good as possible. By clicking on "I accept all cookies", you agree with the use of these cookies.