Winschoten

During the Middle Ages, Winschoten was hard to access because of impassable peat bogs and marshes, but was a well-known stopping place for people on the way to Germany. During the French period (1794-1815), Winschoten developed into the second city in the province of Groningen. In 1825, it was officially granted the privileges of a city. By the end of the 19th century, the city was already thriving, reaching a peak in 1967. In that year, the Rosarium – a large city park – was opened. Measuring a giant 70 hectares, six hectares consist of water gardens. This is also naturally the origin of nickname for Winschoten: ‘Rose of the region’.

Winschoten has another nickname: ‘Little Amsterdam’. The nickname is related to the Jewish history of the region. This history goes back to the 17th century, when the first Jews came to Winschoten. As the years passed, they settled in and found their niche. This Jewish community ultimately developed into the second largest in the Netherlands. The synagogue was naturally at the centre, surrounded by lively working-class areas, plenty of bustle and a very active club life. You might find it interesting to know that the later rabbi and teacher of Anne Frank was born in Winschoten

Over the years, Winschoten has developed into the second shopping city in the province of Groningen, with Groningen being the only city to have a larger shopping area. With its blend of chain stores and local entrepreneurs, the centre has a tremendously varied and surprising range of shops. If you could do with a break during your afternoon of retail therapy, head out to the Marktplein and take a seat at one of the various outdoor cafés.

Culture lovers certainly don’t sell themselves short by coming to Winschoten. Visit the Museum Stoomgemaal steam pumping station. Interesting fact: this is the only one left of over a hundred steam pumping stations that once dotted the province. Alternatively, go to the Cultuurhuis de Klinker in the centre, the ultimate venue in the region which houses a theatre, a cinema, and a library. In addition to main theatre productions, they also schedule films for any age group. Afterwards, conclude the day with a chat and night cap at the Koperen Kees theatre café.