The Oude Markten (Old Markets) are located on the east side of the city center. A place full of history and (tall) tales. For instance, this part of the city is said to have played a leading role in the infamous “Liwadder Beer Rioter” (Liwadder Beer Riot). It is also home to the famous Blokhuispoort, about which many books and films have been made. Nowadays, you will find a mix of old and new there. Beautiful street art contrasts with stately mansions, and young entrepreneurs and initiatives are making the Oude Markten buzz like never before. Absolutely worth a stroll!
Historic Downtown
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dbieb provides public library services in the municipalities of Leeuwarden and Tytsjerksteradiel.
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The Blokhuispoort
The centuries-old past of the Blokhuispoort tells a number of legendary stories. Built on the orders of Willebrord van Schaumburg on the site of the former Uniahuis, the building's function has changed frequently over the years. Ultimately, the building served as a prison (until 2007). The Blokhuispoort was the scene of the heroic liberation of 51 resistance fighters in 1944. A story that is regarded to this day as one of the greatest acts of resistance in the Netherlands during the war.
The Central Pharmacy
The Centraal Apotheek on the corner of De Tuinen and De Voorstreek is a magnificent Art Nouveau monumental building. The building was constructed in 1904-1905 on the site where the Amelandshuis formerly stood. The building was designed by GN Broekema from Kampen and was restored in 2002. Throughout its existence, the building has always served the same function: a pharmacy!
Highlights of the Old Markets
The Oude Markten are a true open-air museum full of beautiful buildings and monuments. Naturally, the iconic Blokhuispoort is the absolute eye-catcher, but there is so much more to discover. Admire the stately facade of the Centrale Apotheek, the imposing old Post Office, and the former premises of the Leeuwarder Courant. Stroll past Mata Hari's birthplace, view the impressive Bonifatius Church, and step inside the historic Chancellery. And above all, don't forget to take a sweet break at La Venezia, Leeuwarden's legendary ice cream parlor, located right in the middle of the Oude Markten. Here you can taste not only the best ice cream in the city but also a piece of local history.
Oh, oh, relax!
The Old Markets in Leeuwarden stimulate all your senses: lively sounds, colorful stalls, and the scent of freshly prepared delicacies fill the air. After such an abundance of impressions, it is wonderful to settle down for a moment on a cozy terrace at the Tweebaksmarkt or in the iconic Blokhuispoort. Here you can enjoy everything: from a small snack or surprising street food to an elaborate meal or refined fine dining. The possibilities are endless, but to make it easy for you, we have listed the best culinary hotspots in the historic city center. Let yourself be inspired and taste the best Leeuwarden has to offer.
The Alibi Hostel is situated in the old prison of Leeuwarden, the Blokhuispoort. The hostel is located in…
Come and visit us — Welcome every day for breakfast, coffee and tea, cake, lunch, brunch, high tea and…
A unique overnight stay in a historic and luxurious national monument right in the center of Leeuwarden with a private free…
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More Leeuwarden?
The city center of Leeuwarden
Discover Leeuwarden
Leeuwarden's city center is difficult to divide into fixed areas. Here, old and new are interwoven, you find history in every street, and a friendly face on every corner. Discover the city center; we'll show you the way.
The Prince's Garden
The Prinsentuin was laid out in 1648 as a pleasure garden for the Nassaus. 150 years later, the park became open to the public. Today, the Prinsentuin is an indispensable meeting place for the city.
More about De Prinsentuin
Historic city center
Leeuwarden breathes history. From a rich trading past and the Middelsee to a favorite of the Nassaus and the court city of Friesland. Although you see and feel the history throughout the city center, it is here where it all began.
More about Historic city center
Nieuwestad, Wilhelminaplein and Ruiterskwartier
Looking for major fashion chains, cute boutiques, and the coziest terraces? Then you need to head to Nieuwestad, Wilhelminaplein, and Ruiterskwartier. Here you will come across icons such as the Waag, the Fries Museum, and the Palace of Justice.
More about Nieuwestad, Wilhelminaplein and Ruiterskwartier
The Old Markets
Nowhere in the city do old and new blend together as much as on the Oude Markten. Where the gallows once stood, today you find streets full of vintage shops, cozy restaurants, and passionate entrepreneurs. Oh, and an old prison…
More about The Old Markets
station area
When you arrive by train or bus, you are warmly welcomed by the impressive LOVE fountain. These two giant heads mark the station area. But there is much, much more to see and do here.
More about the Station Area
Activities Historic City Centre
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