Culture of Leeuwarden. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

In the very heart of the city is one of its main historical symbols - the “falling” De Oldehove Tower. The erection of the church tower began in the first half of the 16th century. Now its inclination angle is much higher than that of the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Besides its unusual appearance, De Oldehove attracts travelers with its observation deck. Everyone can climb the stairs to the top where the observation deck overlooks the main streets and attractions. In clear weather, you can also admire the surrounding areas.

Nearby is the beautiful Church Saint Boniface, which got its name in honor of the famous Anglo-Saxon missionary. The construction of the church was completed in 1882. Since the late 19th century, it has the highest spire in Friesland. The church is characterized by magnificent interior decoration, it has beautiful stained glass windows, as well as other hundred years old elements. The main treasure of the church is a richly decorated 19th-century organ. Many come here specifically to listen to its sound. Church visitors are allowed to climb the bell tower where the highest observation deck in Leeuwarden is located.

The city has one of the largest and most important museums in the region - the Fries Museum. It tells visitors about the history and culture of Friesland through a very diverse collection. It stores old historical documents and manuscripts, and a separate exposition is devoted to the history of the region's industrial development. Of particular interest to tourists are collections of ancient national costumes and jewelry, weapons and musical instruments. Works of art make up a bulk of the museum collection. A few years ago, the museum opened an additional building to present historical artifacts related to World War II. This new building is distinguished by modern technical equipment, many information displays and interactive exhibits. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

A very interesting cultural center is the Het Princessehof National Museum of Ceramics. It occupies a spectacular historic building dating back to 1731. Once the luxurious palace belonged to the princess so that's where its name came from. The royal lady was known for her caring attitude to pottery and ceramics. In her palace, she has gathered a rich collection that included works by the best local and foreign masters.

The next owner of the palace decided to open a thematic museum in it. Its collection is considered one of the richest in the world to this day. Here you can see ceramics made by the best craftsmen from Delft, admire elegant vases and plates on which famous Chinese craftsmen worked. The palace has also preserved a large collection of antique furniture and artworks, however, clay and ceramics are still considered the main values.

Among Leeuwarden's outstanding architectural monuments, it is worth highlighting the old Town Hall built in 1715. Over the years, the building has been repeatedly restored and rebuilt, so today its architecture combines elements of various styles. Back in the 18th century, a market square was built next to the Town Hall. Fairs are regularly held on it even today. Every week, local farmers present their best products here.

Connoisseurs of contemporary art would probably be interested in visiting the Museumhuis Van Eysinga. This art gallery is also housed in a spectacular historic building whose age exceeds two centuries. It was possible to preserve its unique interior decoration, which is no less valuable than the exhibits presented in the museum. Visitors can see some old wooden elements and fragments of murals, elaborate stucco molding and wood carvings. Unusual art installations made by contemporary masters are placed amid such historical splendor. Here you can see paintings of various styles, the best works of modern photographers and designers.

Leeuwarden boasts many beautiful historic streets, and Voorstreek is one of the most interesting for walking. On both sides, it is framed by beautiful buildings of the 18-19th centuries. The town's main pharmacy building has been preserved on this street. The pharmacy has been working here since 1904, for over a hundred years. It is of great interest to travelers, as in addition to medicines it sells unique balms and cosmetics.