Middle Ages in the Green Heart - Historic cities in the province of Utrecht

The Green Heart of the province of Utrecht has a rich medieval history. In this water-rich region between rivers, polders and fortified towns, flourishing trading towns such as Woerden, IJsselstein, Montfoort, Oudewater and Vianen emerged. City rights, castles, city walls and markets dominated the streets here for centuries.

Today you walk through historic city centres, visit castles and discover special stories such as the Heksenwaag in Oudewater and the Paardenmarkt in Vianen. The combination of medieval heritage, monumental buildings and typical Dutch polder landscape makes the Green Heart a unique destination in Utrecht for a cultural day out or a historic weekend away.

Medieval cities - in the green heart

Discover medieval towns in the Green Heart of Utrecht province. From fortified town Woerden to historic Oudewater and Montfoort, each town tells its own story full of trade, city walls, castles and ancient traditions.

  • IJsselstein

    IJsselstein

    IJsselstein experienced a boom period in the late Middle Ages. There had been a feud between Utrecht and IJsselstein for centuries which resulted in Utrecht levelling IJsselstein. The city was besieged several times, but peace came in 1511.

  • Leerdam

    Leerdam

    That Leerdam is traditionally a fortified town can still be seen from the beautiful Zuidwal with its Muizen towers. Other well-preserved buildings, such as the Grote Kerk, also show the city's rich history.

  • Montfoort

    Montfoort

    Originally a medieval town where many historical buildings have been preserved. The old Town Hall with the IJsselpoort and Montfoort Castle.

  • Oudewater

    Oudewater

    A typical medieval city, seen in the city centre that is entirely descended from the Middle Ages. At the time, this city was considered a pagan city. Thus, in the 16th to 18th centuries, people were persecuted because they were thought to be witches.

  • Woerden

    Woerden

    The city of Woerden dates back to Roman times but has undergone a change during the Middle Ages. Indeed, from the 12th century, the town was fortified by a castle, ramparts and canals, among other things.

  • Vianen

    Vianen

    In Free Town Vianen, history, greenery and water come together. When the Van Brederode family started ruling Vianen from 1414 onwards, a heyday began here. At that time, Vianen was a prosperous city and state at the same time. Many buildings of this era have been preserved, such as the town hall, the Lekpoort and Hofpoort.

Medieval highlights - in the Green Heart

Visit the main medieval attractions in the Green Heart, such as Woerden Castle, the Stedehuys in Woerden, Montfoort Castle and the Heksenwaag in Oudewater. These monuments showcase the rich history of the province of Utrecht.

  • Stedehuys Woerden

    Woerden City Museum is located in the city's former Stedehuys. This monumental building from 1501 is already an experience to admire from outside and inside. The main room was the Sheriff and Aldermen's Hall where justice was administered. The old pillory on which convicts were put to shame on the facade is a reminder of the court function. This pillory can still be viewed on the outside of the building.

    More about Stedehuys Woerden
    Stedehuys Woerden

  • Witch scare Oudewater

    The Waag is the monument of Oudewater. For centuries, people have been coming to the original Waag in Oudewater. They are weighed on the centuries-old scales and after being weighed, receive a certificate showing that they have a normal weight. It used to be vital. Now you can still find the Witches' Weigh House in the middle of the town centre of picturesque Oudewater, for a historical experience!

    More about Heksenwaag Oudewater
    Witch scare Oudewater

  • Woerden Castle

    For centuries, the Castle has played an important role in the city's history. From imposing residence for important Woerden residents to military hospital, always a safe haven for its guests. As a unique location and Woerden's most imposing monument, this tradition continues for a wide variety of celebrations and occasions. On weekends, you can come here for a regal High Tea, High Wine or High Beer.

    More about Woerden Castle
    Woerden Castle

  • The Old Town Hall | Montfoort

    The former town hall of the municipality of Montfoort forms one entity with the IJsselpoort, Montfoort's only remaining city gate. Built in 1375, this old town hall is one of the oldest town halls in the Netherlands and is the oldest building in Montfoort!

    More about Het Oude Stadhuis
    The Old Town Hall | Montfoort

  • Montfoort Castle

    The pearl of Montfoort, the Castle. A special national monument consisting of remains of the original castle. You can come here for parties, meetings and delicious lunches and dinners.

    Montfoort Castle

  • Historic Town Hall IJsselstein

    Built by Willen van Oranje, this Historical Town Hall, together with the square in front of it, forms the centre of medieval IJsselstein. At the time, Willen van Oranje financed the construction with 1,300 guilders, for which he received an annual annuity until his death in 1584. Today, the civic hall is rented out for weddings and meetings, among other things.

    Historic Town Hall IJsselstein

A MEDIEVAL PARTY - THE HORSE MARKET IN VIANEN

In 1261, the bishop of Utrecht granted city rights to Vianen. Ten years later, Vianen was allowed to hold annual fairs twice a year within the walls of the current town centre. One of those annual fairs was the market for 'live stock'. Horse traders came to Vianen from far and wide. There was always a lot of entertainment during the Horse Market. From 1725 to 1946, the annual Horse Market was organised by the city council. In 1946, the organisation was transferred to the Viaans feestcomité, later called Paardenmarktcomité. The committee became a foundation in 1978. During the 1970s, the horse trade continued to decline. In 1975, it was decided to hold horse inspections at the market. To have small animals at the Horse Market despite the trade ban, a petting zoo was set up. Anno now, The Horse Market can still be visited.... A medieval feast you must have been to!

Historical Routes in the Green Heart

  • Historic City Walk Woerden

    Imagine yourself in the Middle Ages! This walk takes you past Woerden's main sights and monuments. Tip! Book this city walk with a Gilde guide. The Gilde guide will tell you all about Woerden during the walk.

    View this walking route

  • Audio tour: City walk Oudewater

    Narrow streets, imposing monuments and fascinating stories keep our city's history alive. This audio tour guides you along beautiful and special gems in the historic city centre, telling you stories about IJsselstein along the way. Discover the medieval secrets and admire the more than 300 monuments!

    View this audio tour

  • Heritage Photo Route

    Discover Woerden through special heritage sites! Grab your camera or phone and shoot the most beautiful pictures and discover the most special historical spots.

    View this Photo Route

  • On tour with Hendrik, Lord of Vianen

    Go back in time with Hendrik van Brederode, the lord of Vianen. His ancestors governed the free seigniory of Vianen as early as 1418. In the 17th century, the rule came to an end. Fortunately, remnants can still be seen. Will you join us?

    On the road with Hendrik van Brederode

  • City walk Vianen

    This city walk takes you through the rich history of Free Town Vianen and shows you the most beautiful spots of the city. Enjoy the many stories and delicious terraces in warm-hearted Vianen.

    Discover this route

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