medieval castle dates back to the 13th century,
Wijk bij Duurstede is a picturesque town that effortlessly marries history with charm. With a population of just over 23,000, this quaint locale is a hidden gem that captivates visitors with its rich heritage and stunning landscapes.
At the town’s core lies a medieval castle that dates back to the 13th century, a testament to Wijk bij Duurstede’s historic significance. The town’s cobbled streets and charming canals transport visitors back in time, offering a glimpse into the past while still embracing modernity.
One of the town’s most iconic features is its iconic windmill, which stands proudly amidst the serene Dutch countryside. The surrounding area boasts lush green fields, meandering rivers, and cycling paths that beckon exploration. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a tranquil retreat, Wijk bij Duurstede offers a slice of paradise.
The town’s warm and welcoming atmosphere extends to its vibrant community, with local shops, cafes, and markets inviting visitors to savor authentic Dutch cuisine and immerse themselves in the local culture.
In essence, Wijk bij Duurstede is a captivating blend of past and present, where cobblestones and canals meet modern comforts. This hidden treasure in the Netherlands stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of history and the indelible charm of small-town life.
ferry over river nederrijn
The Nederrijn River is a popular waterway in the Netherlands, linking various cities and towns together.
If you’re traveling to Wijk bij Duurstede and looking for an alternative to driving, taking the ferry across the Nederrijn can be a fun and scenic option. The ferry operates from the town of Rhenen and takes you across the river to Wijk bij Duurstede in just a few minutes. The ferry operates daily during the summer months and also on weekends in the spring and fall. It’s a convenient and affordable way to get to Wijk bij Duurstede while enjoying the beautiful views along the way. Once you arrive in Wijk bij Duurstede, you can explore the town’s medieval castle, historic windmill, and charming downtown area.
vikings at dorestad
Dorestad was a prosperous trading center in the Netherlands during the Viking Age, and it was an attractive target for Viking raiders. The Vikings attacked Dorestad several times in the 9th and 10th centuries, targeting the wealth and commerce of the town. The Vikings also established a settlement nearby called Hedeby, which was a major trading hub between the North Sea and Baltic Sea regions. The Vikings dealt in a variety of goods, including furs, weapons, and slaves, and Dorestad was a key location for trade. The Viking raids and presence in Dorestad contributed to the decline of the town in the 10th century. Vikings in Dorestad left a lasting legacy of destruction, but also influenced the region through trade and cultural exchange.
The town of Wijk, located near Duurstede Castle, obtained city rights around 1300 from Gijsbrecht II van Abcoude, son of Zweder van Zuylen and married to an heiress of Abcoude. The city coat of arms is derived from that of the Van Abcoude family. The three columns come from the coat of arms of the Van Zuylen family. The coat of arms, without crown and shield holders, has been used on seals of the city since at least 1512. The coat of arms, including crown and shield holders, were requested by the mayor in 1816. Since the municipal reorganization of 1996 (addition of Cothen and Langbroek), the municipality uses a logo instead of the municipal coat of arms in communication. As far as is known, the municipal coat of arms is still formally assigned to Wijk bij Duurstede.
Noah's Ark
Covering 2,000 square metres and 4 floors, the biblical stories are brought to life through an array of unique wooden carved sculptures, the centre of which is the tree of life growing 12 metres up through the middle of the ship.
