A hill on Castellumplein dates back to seven Roman forts, built there one after another; round bronze studs in the road surface mark their outlines. The Limes ends where the Rhine flows into the sea at Katwijk and is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can encounter Roman history both in the streetscape and along historic routes.
Roman Traces on the Rhine
The 275-kilometre long-distance walking route Romeinse Limespad begins at the Buitensluis in Katwijk. Its 13-kilometre stage from Katwijk to Leiden runs from the Buitensluis to Leidsche Hout. A Limes cycling route runs between Katwijk and Leiden along the border of the former Roman Empire. Several rest stops on the Rhine in Katwijk provide information about the history of the Limes in Katwijk, Rijnsburg and Valkenburg. The different routes bring the historic frontier to life for walkers and cyclists, without requiring you to follow a set itinerary during your stay.
The museums also offer different perspectives on history. The Torenmuseum has a permanent exhibition on the Roman history of Valkenburg spread across two floors. Check visitor information and opening conditions before you travel. The Katwijks Museum combines art with the town’s fishing heritage: it has an extensive collection on the subject and displays paintings by, among others, Bernardus Johannes Blommers, Willy Sluiter, Jan van Goyen, Hans von Bartels, Morgenstjern Munthe, German Grobe and Jan Toorop. The museum is housed in a former shipowner’s residence dating from the early 20th century and is about 200 metres from the sea.
Museums and Local Stories
The finds at Museum Oud-Rijnsburg date from around 600 to the present day; a model of the former abbey complex is also on display. Museum Het Spinozahuis is located in the house in Rijnsburg where Benedictus de Spinoza lived. A reconstruction of his library is based on the inventory of his estate from 1677. In Rijnsburg, archaeological finds, the history of a monastery and the place where Spinoza lived can all be explored side by side.
The indoor exhibition at Museum Stoomtrein Katwijk Leiden is dedicated to the historical significance of steam locomotives in the Netherlands and how steam engines work. The open-air museum includes historic passenger carriages as well as steam and diesel locomotives. Visitors can take a seat in the driver’s cab or join a scavenger hunt. The Bezoekerscentrum vliegveld Valkenburg offers another historical perspective: its permanent exhibition covers the airfield’s history from the 1930s until its closure in 2006. Check current visiting options before your visit.
Art and Summer Life
The DUNAatelier hosts changing exhibitions throughout the year; during the summer months, the programme also includes art workshops and talks. As exhibitions and events change, it is worth checking the current programme before your visit. Every summer, a tourist market takes place in the centre of Katwijk aan Zee. The market offers regional products as well as performances and workshops. If you plan to attend these events, check the specific dates in advance.
The Vuurbaak, also known as the Vierboet, is the oldest surviving lighthouse building in the Netherlands after the Brandaris and stands 14 metres tall. It is open to the public, but access is seasonal. Its viewing platform is about 30 metres above sea level. Check opening dates before your visit.
Dunes, Forest and Water
Katwijk and its dune area are part of Nationaal Park Hollandse Duinen. South of Katwijk lies Berkheide, a Natura 2000 dune area that is also part of the national park. Vlaggeduin is 37 metres high and the highest natural point in the province of Zuid-Holland. These features give the landscape its distinctive character, from the protected dune area to a striking high point.
Panbos, also known as Pan van Persijn, is a forest for walking and playing for all ages. Its facilities and open areas include duck ponds, play equipment, a deer enclosure and lawns for recreation. Check seasonal opening conditions and current access before your visit. Valkenburgse Meer has a sandy beach and opportunities for water sports; check current conditions at the water and facilities in advance.
Natuurcentrum Katwijk offers education and information about nature, the environment and the living surroundings of Katwijk aan Zee. Visitors can also take part in outdoor activities there. As the activity programme may vary, check what is currently on offer in advance.
Practical Information
Katwijk has numerous car parks and parking garages right by the sea; the town is also accessible by public transport or bicycle. Check current parking conditions when planning your trip. Katwijks Museum can be reached from Leiden Central Station by bus 431 or 90. As routes and stops may change, check current connections before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Katwijk aan Zee, Katwijk, Rijnsburg, Valkenburg, Gouda, Binnenmaas, Ridderkerk, Alphen Aan Den Rijn.
Return to the main travel overview: South Holland.
