Discover traces of medieval Utrecht
Utrecht: a dynamic city centuries in the making! Take a look around medieval Utrecht, where you'll discover fascinating stories and see splendid sights. Did you know that in the Middle Ages Utrecht was the most important city in the Netherlands? Back then, the bishop of Utrecht was not only the religious leader, but also the secular ruler. The elevated status of the bishop, the diocese and the city are embodied in the premier icon of Utrecht: the fourteenth-century Dom Tower. Dive into the history of Utrecht and be amazed at all the remains of this once mighty city.
Medieval icons
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Dom Church
Did you know that Utrecht's Dom Church was built as a Catholic church in the Middle Ages, but came into Protestant hands after the sixteenth-century Reformation? During a visit, you'll hear stories about the medieval city...
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Oudaen City Castle
The centre of Utrecht still bears clear traces of the medieval past. Along the iconic Oudegracht in the heart of Utrecht, several large city castles can still be seen today. Among them is the stately Oudaen, where you can sit down for a drink and a bite in a beautiful historic setting.
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Museum Catharijneconvent
Museum Catharijneconvent is the leading centre for religious art in Utrecht. Established in a beautiful medieval monastery, it is just a short walk from the Dom Church.
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Oudegracht wharves
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DOMunder
Dive deep into Utrecht's past. Underneath the Domplein in Utrecht is DOMunder, an award-winning historical attraction for all ages. From Roman times through the storied Middle Ages right up through a vivid recreation of the storm of 1674, DOMunder takes you on a journey through the electrifying 2,000-year history of the Domplein, Utrecht, the Netherlands and Europe!
Gardens of historic interest
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Dom Church cloister garden
Dom Church cloister gardenThe cloister garden of the Dom Church, known as a ‘pandhof’, is one of the prettiest enclosed gardens in the country, and also boasts a fabulous view of the Dom Tower and Church. It was originally laid out in 1390-1440 and restored in the late nineteenth century. As a cloister garden, it is medieval in style and filled with ornamental plants and herbs.
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Museum Catharijneconvent cloister garden
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Sinte Marie cloister garden
Sinte Marie cloister gardenThis open-air courtyard and the eleventh-century cloister encircling it are known as the Pandhof Sinte Marie, or St Mary’s Cloister. This enchanting green gem is home to a beautiful flower, herb and butterfly garden.
Tour of the Middle Ages
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Dom Church | Audio tour
Dom Church | Audio tourThis audio tour brings together selected highlights of the church, with a special story to go with each one. Ask for the audio tour at the visitor desk and then explore the interior while listening to the stories.
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Walk through medieval Utrecht
Walk through medieval UtrechtUtrecht was one of the first places in the country to be granted city rights, contributing to a long history that is reflected in all the splendid buildings that have been preserved in the historic centre. The best way to discover this bustling city is on foot.
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Canals and Wharves Walk
Canals and Wharves WalkUtrecht's canals with their wharves and canalside cellars are unique in world. This unusual infrastructure was built by the city's inhabitants during the Middle Ages. This walk takes you along the canals and down to several wharves, revealing a whole different side of Utrecht.
Medieval Puzzle Quest - Fun for kids
The Medieval Puzzle Quest is designed especially for young visitors, introducing them to the city of Utrecht and its knights, sheriffs, bishops, brewers, bakers and witches... A fun way to discover the city!