City Museum Woerden

The City museum (Stadsmuseum) is located in the heart of Woerden. In this former 16th-century 'Stedehuys' with a pillory, both history and art can be admired. The museum building itself is already an attraction. In front of the façade stands a sandstone pillory, dating from 1567, which is unique in the Netherlands. On the first floor you can visit the beautiful Vroedschapszaal (council hall), with various temporary- and permanent exhibitions. 

The council hall (Vroedschapszaal) is very suitable for weddings. Profess your vows in front of friends and family in an intimate atmosphere. Hosting modest receptions, meetings and presentations are also possible. Because of the size and the antique furniture, the hall offers space for a maximum of 50 persons.

Fixed collection

The city museum collects the art pieces of artists who have lived and worked in Woerden. An example is the painting by the 17th century landscape painter Herman van Swanevelt (ca.1603-1655), who was a renowned painter from the golden century. Jan willem van Borselen (1825-1892) is also represented in the museum. One of the first landscape painters to explore the Green Heart region of the Netherlands. An important part of the collection are the paintings and drawings of Woerdens own Leo Gestel (1881-1941), one of the Netherlands' most prominent modernist artists. Another Artist who originated from Woerden was Cornelis Vreedenburgh (1880-1946), the museums exhibits his work which can be counted among the best of his colourful, impressionistic-looking oeuvre.

Archaeology

The renewed archaeology section on the second floor exhibits particular finds from Woerdens roman origin. Woerden has a rich roman history. Situated along the Rijn the city was part of the northern roman border. Where the city centre is now situated the romans built a castellum in which they encamped a military force. The archaeology section displays a sword from the roman era, a special bronze lamp, an altar for a roman divinity and a number of small utensils.  

Exhibitions

The city museum Woerden organizes four exhibitions a year. An important reoccurring theme is landscape, this is shown in old and modern art in all forms. Disciplines such as: photography, graphics and textile art are displayed. The museum also regularly organizes activities such as workshops and guided tours. For more information about the temporary exhibitions and activities visit the website

https://en.stadsmuseumwoerden.nl/

Scavenger hunts

The museums wants to make a visit fun for children too. Three different scavenger hunt routes for children of ages 8 to 12 years are available at the front desk.