Sightseeing in Arnhem - what to see. Complete travel guide

Arnhem is a city in the western part of Holland. This city was mentioned for the first time in the 9th century. At that time Arnhem was called Oppidium Arnoldi Villa. This place got the status of the city in 1233, when the country was ruled by Otto II. Arnhem becomes famous in the 19th century, when the city turns into a cultural center and a home town for many famous Dutch painters. Such atmosphere of refinement started attracting many famous and rich people and so they started building numerous luxury villas on the territory of the city. These buildings have been saved until our days and so tourists can enjoy visiting multiple old mansions and walk in huge parks and gardens.

Koepelchurch is one of the most attractive and popular sights in Arnhem. The church was built in the 13th century by the representatives of St. John order. Saint Peters Guesthouse mint place is located just nearby. Also don’t forget to visit Grote Markt, where you can see two wonderful buildings. One of them is a mysterious and a gloomy building named Duivelshuis or “Devil’s House”. While going through its dark halls and narrow corridors, you will find out many interesting legends and tales that throw the light upon the strange name of this house. Just opposite Duivelshuis you will see the house of Maarten van Rossum. The great Dutch military leader lived here.

The so called Corn square is considered one of the most beautiful places in this town. This name appeared many centuries ago, when the square was a small trading area surrounded by corn fields and fruit gardens. Another place of interest that should be definitely visited during your stay in Arnhem is Sabelspoort fortress. Many historical events are connected with this building. The fort was built in the end of the 15th century and for a long time it was used as a prison. Today only several towers remind of the gloomy past of this fortress. All halls have been turned into space for the National Heritage Museum. Bakkerstraat Street is known for its rich shopping experience. The name of the street can be translated as “the street of bakers”, but today you will find there not only bakeries, but also many boutiques, product pavilions and jewelry stores. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Part of the old fortifications was preserved in Arnhem, with the Sabelsport gates resembling the medieval times. The first historical mention of them refers to 1357, this attraction has an interesting history. In the 15th century, it was attached to the gate of the second floor, where there were several dwellings. The basement of the gate was used as a prison for many years. Later, the prison was closed and the basement was converted to hold those that were mentally ill. In the early 20th century in this gates there was a workshop of one of the well-known local artists; today many interesting superstitions and legends connected with these ancient gates. 

One of the most beautiful historical monuments is considered to be the post office, it was built in the 19th century and is located on Jansplein Square. Once upon a time this place was home of the mansion belonging to a famous baron, and in 1883 this piece of land with the mansion was bought by the state. It was then decided to construct a new building, which later housed the local post management, as well as a number of other utility offices. Now the historic building is privately owned, in 2011 an attractive cafe and bookstore was opened there. 

The Reynstrat street is a unique historical object. Until 1996, this busy shopping street used attract tourists with nothing but the variety of shops. During the mentioned year a network of medieval cellars was discovered by the researchers, with some of them built in the 13th century. After the restoration these old cellars became open to visitors, with their total area is about 1200 square meters. Some basements today are used for art exhibitions and various cultural events. 

The Nederlands Openluchtmuseum museum can be considered the most unorthodox cultural institution in Arnhem, whose name literally translates as "Netherlands under the open sky." Today in this museum you can see beautiful historic buildings, which were brought from different regions of the country, and there is a collection of historical artefacts in each building. Also you can see the old steam locomotives and a small copy of the famous attractions in the museum.