Koppelpoort

This is one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. It's magical when you enter to the center of Amersfoort with this view and then suddenly everything looks like you're in the middle age.

This location will show up as the number one spot to visit in Amersfoort on most sites. Yes, it's pretty. Yes it will remind you of Anton Pieck images (Google if you don't know, also try his name in combination with "Efteling".) And (as the center of Amersfoort is just small), it's only a short walk to main center shopping streets and squares. But, at this point you do have a better alternative. Standing on the optimal viewing point (the cycling bridge) turn left and walk towards the Koppelpoort. When reaching it, you will find a "hidden" opening (again to your left) that leads you to the 'plantsoen noord' (north park). This is indeed a park, but it follows the (leftover 50%) of the outer moat that used to surround the 2nd of two city walls. Follow this untill you reach Monnikendam (at this point you will be in the east park) - walking time maybe 30 to 40 minutes. If you look at the map of Amersfoort closely, you will understand why I am suggesting this. The Monnikendam gate is nearly as beautiful as the Koppelpoort (in a different way). BUT... Along this path, you will see a major part of the old mideaval citywall still standing. Just for fun; a take a picture of the towers at the Koppelpoort, take a picture of the largest tower on the remaining part of the wall (halfway on your walk) and take one more picture (at the bottom) of the towers at the Monnikendam gate. Now compare the pictures of these towers And now you understand what was once there. Yes, the Koppelpoort is pretty. But the scale is now clear, especially if you've kept your eye on the map. Above-ground archeology, there for anyone to see... Sorry for all the modern architecture you kept seeing on your right hand. All the pretty stuff was behind it (don't get tempted to turn right before Monnikendam!). But now you can take a well deserved brake at the Marienhof and then head to the city center. It's likely you'll get close to the Koppelpoort once again... Doing this will turn a forgettable visit with some pretty pictures to post on your Instagram or Facebook page into an ACTUAL experience that YOU will remember yourself. And... it's literally a walk down the park :-)

Special wonderful little jouwellery.

very cool at night

One of the impressive gates of Amersfoort. Showing its importance in past times.