Tzjom, Franeker, Harlingen and Achlum

Beautiful Frisian history lessons have been preserved in picturesque villages with their own character. Take Franeker, for example, star of the eleven cities that was founded in the year 800. Explore this beautiful village with a protected cityscape by bike. Part of the authentic Frisian village has old houses that are still in their original state and whose appearance has not been contaminated by new construction.

Dozens of national monuments give Franeker a unique atmosphere. Take, for example, the cute Korendragershuisje, which was built in 1634 for corn bearers and bag carriers and has sagged a bit crookedly. Or the Franeker town hall, built in 1591, which rises above the square in full glory in the Frisian Renaissance style and is in the Top 100 of Dutch UNESCO monuments. A sharp contrast is Botniahuis, where new senior apartments have been built.

Then you pass the beautiful Cammingahuis. The east facade is a remnant of a stins and dating from 1400, this is the oldest part of the building. Five loopholes were found in the facade through which the enemy could be spied on and shot at. In the sixteenth century, the stately building, which was also called Sjaerdemahuis, was renovated. A major renovation also took place from 1969 to 1972, during which the west facade (originally dating from the early fifteenth century) was renewed. The windows were restored to their former glory and regained their original shape.