De Utrecht, Leeuwarden, Art Nouveau commercial building at Tweebaksmarkt, Leeuwarden, Netherlands.
De Utrecht is an Art Nouveau commercial building located at Tweebaksmarkt with yellow brick walls, granite beams, and a tower topped with a pointed roof. The entire facade features decorative ceramic elements and ornamental details that showcase the craftsmanship of the period.
Architects Alexander Kropholler and Jan Frederik Staal designed this building in 1904 as an office for an insurance company. The structure gained recognition as a protected monument in 1979, acknowledging its architectural value.
The building displays sculptures by J. Mendes da Costa, including four pelicans mounted on the tower and coats of arms representing Utrecht and Leeuwarden. These ornaments reflect the insurance company's roots and its ties to both cities.
The building is open to visitors at specific times, and it is best to check ahead as hours are limited. Its location in downtown Leeuwarden makes it easy to reach on foot while exploring the surrounding area.
The entrance features a tile panel with the Latin phrase 'Pax intrantibus', meaning 'Peace to those who enter', positioned above the vestibule. This inscription reflects the intentions of the architects to create a welcoming and tranquil atmosphere for those stepping inside.
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