Utrecht Observatory

Utrecht Observatory is an astronomy museum and working observatory in the Netherlands, built on the foundations of a 16th-century military bastion. The site contains three telescope domes and exhibition spaces focused on the sun, weather patterns, and astronomical observations.

The bastion was founded in 1552 as a defensive structure under Emperor Charles V. It was converted into a scientific institution dedicated to astronomy in 1853.

The place takes its name from the old bastion wall that holds the domes. Visitors can see how this former defensive structure became a center for studying the sky and weather.

The site can be visited on most weekdays and Sundays, making it helpful to plan your timing in advance. Clear skies offer the best conditions for viewing through the telescopes, so good weather days are ideal for this experience.

During renovation work in 2001, workers discovered remains of Utrecht's first chemical laboratory, which was the third of its kind in the world. This archaeological find reveals how long the site has been used for scientific research.

Location: Utrecht

Part of: Historische stadswallen

Address: Zonnenburg 2

Phone: +31308201420

Website: http://sonnenborgh.nl

GPS coordinates: 52.08539,5.12919

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:09