Walking Tour of Naarden – A Star-Shaped Fortress Town

📅 Sunday, June 1st, 2025
🕒 Meeting time: 15:00
📍 Meeting point: In front of the Utrechtse Poort (Naarden's historic city gate)

Join us for a unique Sunday afternoon walk through Naarden, one of the most beautiful and historically rich fortified towns in the Netherlands.

🌟 What makes Naarden special?
Naarden-Vesting is a 12-pointed star-shaped fortress, surrounded by a double ring of moats and considered one of the best-preserved defence systems in the country. Built in the aftermath of a tragic 16th-century massacre by Spanish forces, the town later became a stronghold of the Dutch army until the 1920s.

During this 3.9 km walk, we’ll explore:
🏡 Quaint streets lined with houses from the 1500s
⛪ The Grote Kerk, with its stunning 16th-century painted vaults
🧱 The Vestingmuseum, featuring ramparts and underground casements
📚 The Comenius Museum, dedicated to the Czech philosopher and educator buried here

🍺 After the tour – A drink at De Vitrine van Dammers
To wrap up, we’ll visit Naarden’s oldest café, in operation since 1885. Here you can enjoy a locally brewed beer or one from a small but curated selection of other breweries.

✅ Details & Tips

• The walk is easy and flat – comfortable shoes recommended
• Don’t forget water, and bring your curiosity!
• Spaces are limited – RSVP soon to confirm your spot
• In case of bad weather, we’ll notify you of any changes

Spend your Sunday discovering a place where history and charm meet—see you in Naarden!