Hoge der A en Lage der A

Most photographed place in Groningen

The old warehouses along the deep reveal the bustle of yesteryear. Ships came and went here, and you could hear the rattling wheels and the trampling of horses' hooves all day long. Strolling along the quays, you pass no fewer than 28 national and 11 municipal monuments. Like stepping into a painting.

Ebb and flow

Seals used to sometimes swim by here. The city's oldest port quarter was for a long time in direct connection with the sea. Quietly waiting for the water to reach the right height? The enterprising Groningers didn't have time for that. They built a high quay, the Hoge der A, for loading and unloading during high tide. On the other side of the deep came a low quay for during low tide, the Lage der A. In this way, trading could continue uninterrupted.

Waterfront drinks

Waterborne trade has almost stopped, but the bustling activity has remained. Several bars and cafés colour the quaysides with their terraces during warm days. If it is raining or chilly, sit inside with a great view of the docked ships. In the days just before Christmas, it is extra cosy here. Then, the Hoge and Lage der A form the backdrop of the busy WinterWelVaart. Illuminated ships, a cosy Christmas market, live performances and mulled wine take over the quays.

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