Sightseeing in Groningen - what to see. Complete travel guide

Groningen is one of the towns of the Netherlands that is famous for its long history and respected culture. This town is not a big one, so it perfectly fits tourists who seek unhurried rest, want to enjoy beauty of nature, ride a canoe or a catamaran on water canals that cross and round Groningen is different directions. Martini Tower is the main architectural site of the town and stands in Groningen for over 500 years. The tower is a part of the old church of St. Martin. Inside the tower are stored unique frescos created in XIII. Here also stands the biggest organ of Northern Europe decorated in the Baroque style. There are several old churches in Groningen - Nieuwe Kerk and Aa Kerk.

Groningen is also a university town, so at least one fourth of its population is students. There are always many young people in this town and this is the reason for multiple cafes, pubs and nights clubs that can be found here. Live never stops at Groningen. The town is also famous for its festivals. Noorderliht is the festival of photography that often exhibits real masterpieces and photos with deep meanings; Noorderslag is the festival devoted to Dutch pop music, which is also famous by performances of amateur theatres and festival of blues music. While taking a walk on silent Groningen, devote some time to visiting a wonderful park Lauwersmeer or attend the Museum of Groningen and an original Museum of Tobacco. Children will definitely enjoy visiting a cattle farm, the local Museum of History and Museum of Comics.

The most beautiful architectural monument in the neoclassicism style is the City Hall building. Its construction began in the late 18th century and was completed in the year 1810. Like many years ago, today in this building there are sessions of city council. The spectacular building with columns is one of the most photographed in the city. In front of it, there is a spacious square, where interesting entertaining events often take place. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The city has one of the oldest universities in the world. In 2014, it celebrated its 400th anniversary. The historical building of the university with huge windows and a richly decorated facade amazes with its luxury. Around the building is a very beautiful garden. About 28,000 people are constantly educated at this university, and about 5,000 people work there.

In the immediate vicinity of Groningen, there is a unique historical monument – Fort Bourtange. This majestic fortress was founded in 1593 and has a very unusual architectural form. The fort is built in the form of a star. Today, it houses an interesting historical museum. Several years ago, a major reconstruction of the fort was completed, during which not only the old buildings were rebuilt, but also the adjacent territory. As in the Middle Ages, today the fortress is surrounded by deep moats filled with water. It can be approached only by special bridges.

A symbolic building for the city is the Goundkantoor, one of the oldest and most spectacular buildings in the city. The beautiful mansion was built in 1635. Originally, it housed an institution in which taxes were collected. In the 19th century, the so-called Assay Chamber was located here, in which the quality of precious metals was assessed, and samples were also placed on them. It was during this period that the beautiful building was fixed with the unusual name. Today in the Goundkantoor is a popular restaurant of national cuisine.

In Groningen, there are many beautiful gardens and parks. One of the most beautiful is the Princely Garden. It was founded in 1626. Like many years ago, currently medicinal herbs and a few dozen types of roses are grown in this garden. On the territory of the garden, there are many beautiful gazebos, and a cozy tea house where visitors can relax in the warm season.