Happy TravellerWelcome to Arnhem, a picturesque city located in the eastern part of the Netherlands. As the capital of the province of Gelderland, Arnhem is home to a rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and a thriving cultural scene. With a population of over 160,000, it is one of the larger cities in the country and a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. In this article, we will explore the fascinating history of Arnhem, its many attractions, and everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to this charming Dutch city.
Arnhem owes its existence to the rivers Nederrijn and Sint-Jansbeek, which were the source of the city’s development. The earliest settlements in the area date back to 1500 BC, and today, visitors can explore the city’s rich history by visiting landmarks such as the St. Eusebius Church, which was built between 1452 and 1560, and the Duivelshuis, a town hall that was once home to the general Maarten van Rossum.
Aside from its historic landmarks, Arnhem is also home to several world-class museums, including the Netherlands Open Air Museum and the Airborne Museum Hartenstein. The former features antique houses, farms, factories, and windmills from different parts of the Netherlands, while the latter is dedicated to the city’s role in World War II, particularly the famous Battle of Arnhem, which was dramatized in the 1977 movie A Bridge Too Far. Visitors can also explore the stunning natural beauty of Arnhem by visiting the Hoge Veluwe National Park, which is approximately 55 square kilometers in area and consists of heathlands, sand dunes, and woodlands.
Arnhem is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, with several festivals and events taking place throughout the year. The Airborne Commemoration, held each year in September, is a particularly moving event that honors the soldiers who fought and died in the Battle of Arnhem. Other events include the World Statues Festival, the Sonsbeek Theater Avenue, and the Free Your Mind Festival.
For sports enthusiasts, Arnhem is home to the GelreDome, a unique facility that features a retractable roof and a slide-out grass pitch. The stadium is the home of Vitesse Arnhem, the city’s Eredivisie team in football, and has hosted several major sporting events over the years. The National Sports Centre Papendal, located just outside of Arnhem, is the national sports development center of the Netherlands and offers facilities for various sports, including athletics and cycling.
In terms of transportation, Arnhem is served by the Arnhem Centraal railway station, which provides direct connections to several intercity lines and the Intercity-Express to Düsseldorf and further on to Frankfurt. The city also has a trolleybus system, which is unique in the Netherlands.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Arnhem has something to offer everyone. With its charming atmosphere, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural scene, it’s no wonder that Arnhem is one of the most popular destinations in the Netherlands. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Arnhem today!
