The Martini Martinitoren

Over the past 500 years, the ‘ Martinitoren ’ has burnt down, been struck by lightning and nearly collapsed. Wars have been won and lost on its steps. The tower stood firm and, at 97 metres, remains the city’s tallest building. When you climb to the top, you experience a slice of tangible history and a fantastic view.

Don’t count on a lift. Climbing the Martinitoren means you’ll have to put in some effort. It’s no surprise that most visitors spend over an hour inside. But your workout will be richly rewarded. Every few steps, you’ll find yourself face to face with the vaults of the Martini Church, centuries-old ornaments, the incredibly heavy bells or the gigantic flagpoles. At the first landing, you can step outside and walk around the tower at a height of 39 metres.

A good few more steps up take you to the clock loft. After those cramped, somewhat damp passageways, you experience an immense sense of space here. Standing amongst the clock faces, you can hear the seagulls above you and the people down in the market square. You look out over the city and see the surrounding countryside in the distance. And then it’s time to head back down. The aching muscles the next day are well and truly worth it.

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