City information
Hello! How wonderful that you have chosen to explore Gouda : one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands. I would like to take you on an unforgettable walk of several hours through this beautiful city full of history and charm.Walk through the city with me and discover interesting facts and the most beautiful places in Gouda . During the tour I will tell you about the history and highlights. And of course I will show you the most beautiful places to take photos!
Before we start, a quick overview of the history…
In the winding streets of Gouda , where the Gouwe winds its way through the heart of the city, lies a history that goes back to the Middle Ages. Once a modest settlement on the riverbank, Gouda grew into a thriving trading city that would give its name to one of the most famous cheeses in the world.
With the acquisition of city rights in 1272, Gouda began its rise to prosperity and fame. The city thrived in the lee of its waterways, where merchants traded their wares and artisans practiced their crafts. The smell of freshly baked cheese and the sound of clinking coins filled the streets. In the Golden Age, when Dutch trade controlled the oceans, Gouda 's prosperity reached its peak. The city was a center of cheese production, candle making and pipe manufacturing. Its Gothic churches and stately town hall bore witness to its wealth and cultural prosperity. But Gouda was not only known for trade. The city was also a hotbed of religious life, with the Reformation leaving its mark on history. The imposing St. John's Church, with its majestic stained glass windows, became a beacon of Protestant pride amid the changes of the times. Today, Gouda still exudes the atmosphere of its glorious past. The markets bustle with activity, the canals glisten in the sun and the cobbled streets whisper stories of times gone by. With its cheese, stroopwafels and historic charm, Gouda remains an irresistible destination for travelers who want to taste and experience history. Our starting point is at the station, at the main entrance with the statues.