Travel Guide to Utrecht, Netherlands

This city is located in the central part of the country. This is a major university center and a popular resort of the Netherlands. First mentions of the city belong to the first century. At that time a large fortress was built by the Romans on the place of the modern city. For many years Utrecht has been an important point of defense. In the end of the 7th century it became a large diocese. This is the reason why numerous temples, churches and other religious buildings have survived here till our days. In the middle of the 16th century the city became the center of Utrecht Dutch Republic.

The central part of the city is surely the most notable for tourists. Several major museums are also located here. If you want to see a collection of paintings by best Dutch painters, you will find all you need in Central Museum. Fans of numismatics should visit Museum of Coins. Other interesting exhibitions are presented in Railway Museum and Museum of Science and Society.

Domkerk cathedral is notable enough to distinguish it from the above-mentioned religious sites of the city. The spire of this beautiful Gothic building is visible from all parts of the city. This spire is considered the highest one in the Netherlands. The construction of the cathedral started in the middle of the 13th century and lasted more than three hundred years. The original building was designed in the Romanesque style, but it was rebuilt several times. Now its fa?ade and tower are made in the late Gothic style, but the interior has retained the charming designs of 13 - 14 centuries. The inner decoration of the cathedral’s halls has never been changed.

Several notable buildings are located near the cathedral. Visitors are recommended to attend Bishop’s Garden and the arcade located on its territory. Giant stained-glass windows depicting saints are the main decoration of the arcade. If you manage to visit this city in late August, you will be able to participate in a nice holiday - Festival of Early Music. At this time of year the city attracts best musicians from different parts of the world. The beautiful music is played here during seven days, rejoicing and delighting music lovers.