Historic city center Special stories

When you visit Leeuwarden, you definitely shouldn’t miss the city's icon, the Oldehove. The Oldehove has stood here since 1529 and is even more tilted than the Leaning Tower of Pisa! You can admire it from both inside and outside. The lift, installed in 2011, takes you to the first floor, and from there you’ll have to conquer the spiral staircase to reach the roof. Go for it! Once at the top, you’ll have a stunning view of the city.

The Oldehove

De Kanselarij was built between 1566 and 1571 as the seat of the Hof van Friesland. After that, the building served as a hospital (1814), barracks (1814-1824), a house for civil and military insurance (1824-1892), and even as a museum. Until 2013, it was one of the buildings of the Fries Museum, until it moved to its new location at Wilhelminaplein. Today, it is a breeding ground, a place where education, business, and government come together.

De Waag was always the center of trade. This building was constructed around 1595 in Renaissance style. Merchants were required to have their wares weighed at De Stadswaag. A reliable weighing facility was essential for trade and, consequently, beneficial for the city's prosperity. In Leeuwarden, butter was primarily traded, which is why De Waag was known as the butter weighhouse. De Waag on Nieuwestad was in use until 1880, but nowadays, you can enjoy sitting on the terrace!

De Waag

This fantastic jugendstil—also known as art nouveau—pharmacy is among the top 100 of Europe’s most beautiful buildings, and for good reason! Built in 1905, this monument is perfectly maintained and is still used as a pharmacy to this day. Anyone visiting Leeuwarden should certainly not miss this remarkable city view.

On the edge of the city center stands a very special building, De Blokhuispoort. This former prison from the 16th century is reflected in every detail. Where once the tough guys were housed, you now find a hostel, creative entrepreneurs, small shops, a library, and two restaurants.

De Blokhuispoort

Want to leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind for a moment? Then take a stroll to the hidden courtyards and almshouses in the city center: Luilekkerland, Boshuisengasthuis, and Sint Anthony Gasthuis. You’ll find an oasis of tranquility here; it feels as if time has stood still.

De Prinsentuin was established in 1648 as a pleasure garden for the House of Nassau and as a tribute to the end of the Eighty Years' War and the Treaty of Münster. It wasn’t until 150 years later, by order of King William I, that the park was opened to the public. Today, De Prinsentuin is an essential meeting place. From concerts and festivals to peaceful walks or relaxed picnics, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find a restaurant—De Koperen Tuin—and one of the most beautiful harbors in the Netherlands!

De Prinsentuin