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HISTORICAL BUILDINGSGroningen is a city with a rich history, which is evident from the numerous beautiful

buildings. The warehouses, the city hall, the Martini Tower and Martini Church and the

main railway station are just a minor selection of Groningen’s historical heritage.

Martini church and towerThe most important Groningen monument is the Martini tower which has overlooked the city

for over five hundred years. This fourth highest tower of the Netherlands can be climbed until

the third gallery. Afterwards, see the Martini church, the largest church in Groningen.

Originating from approximately 1230, it includes frescos from the 13th century, and one of the

largest Baroque organs in northwest Europe. Ask about the church’s opening hours prior to

your visit.

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Main railway stationThe Groningen main railway station has more on offer besides getting on or off a train. This is

the “cathedral of the winged wheel”’, the entrance gate for the city as well as an extremely

important monument. When standing in the main hall, imagine yourself a traveller from the

19th century: admire shelters for various classes, leaded windows, beautifully decorated

ceilings, and a very particular six metre-high wrought iron streetlight in the centre.

Prinsenhof and PrinsentuinDuring recent years, Radio/TV Noord was

accommodated in the Prinsenhof, but they

moved a short while ago. Originally used as a

monastery, a suitable function for this complex

is now being looked for. Behind the Prinsenhof

is the Prinsenhoftuin, which includes a rose

garden and herb garden, and a footpath

covered with foliage (berceau). The garden,

surrounded by a wall, is one of the best

examples of a Renaissance garden in the Netherlands.

The Prinsenhoftuin garden is opened from early April to half-October from 10 am to sunset.

The tearoom is open during fine weather.

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Goudkantoor (gold office)Originally a provincial tax office, this building was built in 1635. With its lavishly decorated

façades, it was the last Renaissance style building to be constructed in Groningen. It was given

the name of Goudkantoor in the 19th century when the “bureau of security for gold and silver”

was located here, and it is now a café/restaurant.

SynagogeThe Groningen synagogue is located in the

Folkingestraat, which was the Groningen Jewish

quarter until the Second World War. The

synagogue was designed by Amsterdam

architect Tjeerd Kuiper and Groningen architect

IJ. van der Veen. The cruciform building was

consecrated in 1906 and has a distinctive

Moorish style.