Steenwijk, Medieval fortified town in Overijssel, Netherlands
Steenwijk is a fortified town in Overijssel surrounded by intact medieval defense walls, moats, and gates that still mark its boundaries. The Sint Clemenskerk tower rises prominently over the roofline, creating a recognizable landmark for the central district.
The town gained city rights in 1327 and was substantially fortified during the Eighty Years' War between 1568 and 1648. These defensive improvements made it a strategic stronghold during a period of regional conflict.
The Museumhuis Rams Woerthe displays everyday objects from local pottery workshops and the tobacco trade that shaped community life. These items show how craftspeople and traders were central to the town's identity and prosperity.
The train station offers regular connections to Arnhem and Leeuwarden, making regional travel straightforward. The compact medieval street layout means most attractions and facilities are within easy walking distance.
The medieval street layout preserves buildings at different ground levels due to soil accumulation over centuries. Walking through reveals how the town has literally risen and shifted, creating an uneven floor plan that tells a physical story.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
