Experience the fascinating history of Nijmegen

An ancient Roman settlement
This walk takes you right through the center of Nijmegen. You will pass the Oppidum Batavorum, the oldest Roman settlement in the Netherlands, which was founded around the year 10 BC. The name of this place means'fortified place of the Batavians\\\' and it served as an administrative center for the Batavan. That made it easier for the Romans to exert influence in this area. In this old settlement mainly traders, craftsmen and officials lived. A mixture of Batavian and Roman culture arose in this settlement.

Historic sites
Other sights in Nijmegen were added much later, such as the Mariënburg chapel from 1430. You also walk past various listening points where you can listen to special stories from the Second World War. How about, for example, the story of the resistance hero Jan van Hoog who kept an eye on German activities on and around the Waal bridges for months.

The Valkhof
At the end of the route you walk through Het Valkhof, a beautiful park on the outskirts of Nijmegen. The park is located on a hill with a beautiful view over the Waal. This elevation in the landscape used to be used by the Batavians. You used to find the largest and oldest castle in the Netherlands here, but only a ruin remains.

Reading tip! Roman heritage

Long ago, the Arnhem Nijmegen region was part of the Roman Empire. If you cycle or walk around here you will come across all kinds of traces from Roman times. Would you like to know more about the remains of the Roman Empire in this region? Then read the article' Roman traces in the south of Gelderland'.

Looking for fascinating stories, beautiful routes or nice places for a break in Gelderland? Read more here.