Blauwe Steen, Boundary marker at Breestraat intersection, Leiden, Netherlands.
Blauwe Steen is a hexagonal blue stone marker situated at the intersection of Breestraat, Pieterskerkchoorsteeg, and Maarsmansteeg in central Leiden. The current stone was placed in 1910 by the Oud Leiden association, replacing earlier versions that had been removed.
First recorded in 1321, the marker indicated the symbolic center where four medieval city quarters converged. These districts took their names from major institutions that anchored each area.
The stone represents a historic gathering point where medieval city districts met and where judicial matters were once handled. Today, locals recognize it as a symbol of Leiden's old center and its layered past.
The marker sits at a busy intersection where three streets meet, making it easy to spot while walking through central Leiden. Watch for pedestrians and vehicles since this is an active traffic area.
The marker forms part of a trio with a red stone and a white stone, each representing different administrative zones of medieval Leiden. Together, they show how the city divided its authority across distinct areas.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
