Woudrichem
Historic waterfront fortified town where fishing and heritage come together
Ancient fortified town
Fortified town Woudrichem, or Woerkum, as its inhabitants say, is the only town in the Biesbosch Line. In the 9th century, a marketplace arose on a bank embankment. Today, this is where Hoogstraat and Molenstraat intersect. This place is still the heart of the fortified town.
Discover
-
8x inspiration for a day in Woudrichem8
8x inspiration for a day in Woudrichem
-
Dutch Water Lines
Dutch Water Lines
-
Restaurants
Restaurants
-
Fortified Town Triangle
Fortified Town Triangle
Stories along Woudrichem
-
Discover Woudrichem: a day full of history and adventure
Photographer and storyteller Jeanine discovers Woudrichem with her family. They sail with the new foot ferry to Slot Loevestein, dive into the history of the fortified town and end the day relaxed with an overnight stay in the fortified town.
-
Woudrichem: from medieval town to protected fortified town
Woudrichem developed from medieval town with fishing rights, to strategic defense point and fortified town. The fortified town of Woudrichem was designated a protected townscape in 1972.
-
Rich history and freshly baked fish, the fish auction of Woudrichem!
Just inside the gate of Woudrichem stands the old fish auction, once the center of the local fishing industry. Fishermen from the area sailed far up the rivers and brought their catch here to auction. Today, fresh gurnard is still baked here regularly.
-
Discover fortified town of Woudrichem
Fortified town Woudrichem is the only town in the Biesbosch Line. The town is strategically located at the confluence of Maas and Waal, at the junction of 3 provinces, and is known for salmon fishing. Discover the Martinus tower and sailing heritage, among other things.
-
The generosity of Altena
Altena is rich in nature and culture, but also has a thriving countryside. Highly recommended is the route Smakelijke streek, a 32 kilometer route right through the polders and over the dikes, which takes you past local estate stores and stalls.
-
Walking through Acres of Altena
Join this eight-kilometer hike through the beautiful polder landscape, where you can not only enjoy nature, but also delicious, local delicacies along the way.
History
Woudrichem is strategically located at the confluence of Maas and Waal, at the junction of 3 provinces. The Land of Altena, to which Woudrichem belongs, belonged to the County of Holland from 1322. Only in 1815 was it assigned to the new province of North Brabant.
Woudrichem received city rights in 1356. In that year, the burial river toll of Niemandsvriend was also moved from Sliedrecht to Woudrichem. A few years later, the town also received fishing rights, and flourished. The Martinus Church and city walls date back to this time.
In 1420, the toll was moved to Gorinchem. This event, the Saint Elizabeth Flood of 1421 and the many military conflicts the town was involved in because of its location, caused the decline of the town.
The many sieges have left their mark in Woudrichem. In 1573, the Beggars set fire to the town. They considered it indefensible. A new city wall was then thrown up, protecting a smaller area than the old city wall had done. This city wall is the fortified town wall that still surrounds the center.
In 1814, Woudrichem became part of the New Dutch Waterline. No construction was allowed in the surrounding land from then on. It was not until 1955 that the fortified town was disbanded and new residential areas were built around the town.
The historic city center is a protected cityscape.
Book a city guide
The fortified town of Woudrichem is small, perfect for exploring on foot. Wander through the old streets and past all the historical highlights: the Martinus Church, the windmill, the city walls, the historic harbor and the prisoners' gate. Want some more information? Then go out on your own with our city walk, walk a scavenger hunt or be led around by one of the guides from the City Guides Guild. They can also help you climb the Martinus Tower.
For children there is a special children's walking route. On this page and in the guide Woudrichem Stroomt you will find ideas to explore Woudrichem further.
City Guides Guild
Routes in and around Woudrichem
Not finished yet?
-
Events
The Biesboschlinie is bustling with activities. Annual fair, festival or concert? All events can be found in the agenda.
-
Art & Culture
From centuries-old castles and fortified towns to museums, galleries and creative studios, here you'll find a rich mix of history and imagination. Whether you love art or history, there is always something to discover.
-
Are you staying the night?
The Biesboschlinie is the ideal destination for a long weekend or midweek getaway. From camping to B&B, these are all locations to stay overnight.