Paleis Lofen, Medieval imperial palace ruins at Domplein, Netherlands
Paleis Lofen is a medieval imperial palace in Utrecht, whose remains lie underground beneath Domplein and the buildings around it. The surviving structure consists of tuff stone walls and sandstone pillars that can still be seen in the cellars below street level.
The palace was built in the 11th century as a residence for German emperors when they visited Utrecht. Over the following centuries it fell out of use and was gradually buried beneath the expanding city.
The name 'Lofen' comes from a medieval word for covered galleries or arcades, which reflects how the building was originally laid out. Visitors who go underground can still see the tuff stone walls that once formed part of those covered walkways.
The ruins can only be visited on a guided tour starting at Domplein, and booking ahead is required. Groups tend to be small, so it is worth reserving a spot well in advance to avoid disappointment.
During excavations in 1931, two original columns were found standing in a cellar beneath Domplein 16, where they had gone unnoticed for centuries. These columns remain in their original position and can be seen during the guided visits.
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