Arnhem is a large, vibrant, and fascinating city with a rich history and numerous interesting sites. It’s worth a visit, if only to admire originals of iconic works by Rodin, Monet, and Van Gogh. Or to see the site where one of the most massive Allied operations unfolded at the end of World War II.
Arnhem Attractions and Attractions
The heart of Arnhem is the Grotemarkt market square. Here you can see the curious Dijvelshuis, a mansion associated with many medieval tales. Built in the 16th century as the personal residence of the famous military commander Rossum, the house became the city hall in the 19th century. Numerous sculptures of human heads and goat-legged satyrs adorn its façade.
The Cathedral of St. Eusebius, built over a century ago in the late Gothic style, boasts a bell tower over 90 meters high, one of the tallest in the Netherlands. The church was severely damaged during World War II, and many fragments of its interior were irretrievably lost. However, inside you will see a beautiful Renaissance tombstone of the Duke of Guelders from the mid-16th century.
Köpelchurch was built in the 13th century for the monastic order of St. John. Nearby is another beautiful old building: St. Peters Guesthouse, built in the early 15th century. It was formerly the home of a coin minter, and the building itself was also nicknamed the “coin building”—altmeinte.
The Korenmarkt, a corn square, is very picturesque. During the Middle Ages, it was the center of farmers’ trade.
The John Frost Bridge was destroyed in 1944 during the key Dutch Allied operation. It was rebuilt six years later and named after the commander of the British forces.
Arnhem has many interesting museums. The Kröller-Müller Art Museum, located in the heart of the national park, boasts a large collection of works by Van Gogh. It also houses masterpieces by Mondrian, Picasso, and Monet.
The Arnhem City Museum boasts an excellent collection of works by magical realists, contemporary artists, and a stunning jewelry collection. The Bronbeek Museum features exhibits dedicated to the Netherlands’ colonial past. Here, you can see examples of weapons and uniforms, as well as archival and photographic materials related to the Dutch colonies in India.
The Arnhem Zoo, “Burgers,” is particularly popular, offering a veritable tropical oasis. A stroll through this greenhouse-like setting, with views of giraffes and other animals and birds roaming freely, is a delightful experience.
