Woudrichem, old Dutch fortificated town
The oldest mention in the church books of Woudrichem of my mothers family name is that of my forefather Oth Arien Corneliszn Havelaer, married in 1635 A.D. So he must have been born 400 years ago. While strolling in the beautiful old fortified town of Woudrichem, it's hard to imagine that he must have walked over the same cobble stones; how did he spend his days in this small city?
Entering the old fortified centre of Woudrichem two buildings dominate the skyline, the massive "Mosterd Pot", tower of the gothic Saint Martin church, and the "Nooit Gedagt" -Never Thought-, a mill that has its original function - you can buy flour here.
Strategically situated on the river Merwede the town became a fortess (in the time of William of Orange; 16th century) with ramparts which still can be visited. It has many old houses and monuments, among others the old town hall on the Markt now housing a restaurant. The beautiful Prison Gate is the only one left of five, garded by 15th century leading lady Jacoba van Beieren. From the back of the town there's a small ferry service (only pedestrians) for Slot Loevestein, one of the most famous Dutch castles where prominent Dutch jurist Hugo Grotius escaped his imprisonment in a book case.
