Dom Square

Overlooked by the imposing Dom Tower, Dom Square is the birthplace of Utrecht and remains the city’s beating heart.This square has an inspiring past and present: it started out as the Roman fort of ‘Traiectum’ 2,000 years ago and hosted the start of the Tour de France in 2015. Read more about this unique location in Utrecht.

History

Immerse yourself in Utrecht’s past at Dom Square, the heart of the city. Visit the four historical locations on and underneath the square to learn about its story and the origins of Utrecht. Go underground to discover the city’s archaeological treasures at DOMunder or relive the terror of the Great Iconoclasm at the Gothic Dom Church up top. Head even higher and climb the 465 steps of the iconic Dom Tower to enjoy a spectacular panorama of the city and surrounding landscape. Or why not explore the remains of the imperial Lofen Palace and discover how Utrecht became a city in 1122?

Dom Tower

The 600-year-old Dom Tower is the undisputed symbol of Utrecht.

Watching over the city, the Dom Tower offers a unique perspective on Utrecht. Ready to climb? Join a knowledgeable guide up the 465 steps to the top of the Netherlands’ highest church tower and discover fascinating stories about this iconic structure. Halfway up, you will encounter the tower’s ancient swinging bells, which together weigh 32,000 kilograms. Go even higher and come face to face with the spectacular carillon crafted by the famous 17th-century Hemony bellfounders. Once you reach the walkways at 70 and 95 metres, take a moment to enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the city and the surrounding landscape.

Find out more about visiting Dom Tower

DOMunder

DOMunder is the ultimate historical attraction for all ages. Embark on a subterranean journey of discovery beneath Dom Square to uncover 2,000 years of Utrecht’s history.

Explore the city’s Roman roots and glorious Middle Ages. Grab a smart torch, listen to the thrilling stories and get up close to archaeological treasures. Relive the catastrophic storm of 1674 that destroyed the Dom Church’s nave and learn how Dom Square has evolved through the centuries to the present day.

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Lofen Palace

Explore the remains of the imperial Lofen Palace, where Utrecht’s journey to becoming a city began in 1122. On 2 June that year, Holy Roman Emperor Henry V granted city rights to Utrecht from his palace, known locally as 'Lofen'. Although the palace was destroyed by fire in 1253, its remnants remained hidden for centuries before being unearthed in the cellars of buildings between Dom Square and Vismarkt. In celebration of Utrecht's 900-year anniversary, Lofen Palace was opened to the public on 2 June 2022.

Reserve your tickets for Lofen Palace

Dom Church

The monumental Dom Church stands proudly at the centre of Dom Square. This spectacular Gothic church was once much larger and connected to Dom Tower by a bridge. Its history has been shaped by significant events: the Great Iconoclasm in 1580 purged and destroyed all Roman Catholic images, and a violent storm in the 17th century destroyed the nave.

Dom Church nevertheless remains an imposing structure, both inside and out, featuring lavishly decorated memorial gravestones with unique details.

It continues to serve as a place of worship, welcoming visitors for quiet reflection and prayer and offers daily guided tours.

Find out more about visiting Dom Church

Want to find out more about the four locations? Discover all of them on a Dom Square Highlights Tour. Find more information here.

Where to eat and shop

Dom Square is home to many restaurants, pubs and cafés. You will also find the Utrecht Tourist Information Centre here, where you can conveniently order tickets, book tours and buy local souvenirs.