Koppelpoort — Attraction in Amersfoort

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...

Must-see historical gem! The Koppelpoort is absolutely worth visiting - it’s the only combined land-water gate in the Netherlands and dates back to around 1425. Time your visit for summer and you might catch the cannon demonstrations by De Stadskanonniers - quite a spectacle! Fun fact: if you were caught drunk and fighting in medieval times, your punishment was operating the water gate mechanism, literally running like a rat in a wheel. This is where the Dutch term “raddraaier” (troublemaker) comes from! Beautiful medieval architecture, perfect for photos, and great for history buffs. Definitely add this to your...

The crowning glory of Amersfoort.

This is a part of the old city I do not know of a paid tour. It is possible there is one but it would only be to go inside the rooms in the impressive gate.

It is like Amersfoort a hidden gem. The locals appreciate this historic quarter. Even the trains that thunder past do not distract from the beautiful mesmerising place.

I think this would have been the main water entrance to the city probability from the Old Zuider Zee. Wonder if my ancestors who where barge and boat owners visited. Trade then was strong and although Brexit has damaged that it...