Leiden is a city in the province of South Holland in the Netherlands. It is known for its rich history, picturesque canals and well-preserved historic architecture. Leiden is home to Leiden University, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe, founded in 1575 by William, Prince of Orange.
Leiden has a fascinating history dating back to Roman times. It played an important role during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century as a centre of learning and culture. Many renowned scholars and artists are associated with Leiden, including Rembrandt van Rijn, who was born and educated in the city.
The city has a vibrant cultural scene with museums, galleries and theatres. It is also famous for its annual 3 October festival, which commemorates the siege of Leiden in 1574.
The city's historic centre is characterised by beautiful canals, historic buildings and cobbled streets. Some must-visit attractions include the Leiden Town Hall, the Pieterskerk and the Burcht van Leiden, an old citadel with panoramic views over the city. Leiden is also known for its botanical garden, Hortus Botanicus Leiden, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, established in 1590. The garden houses a diverse collection of plants from all over the world.
Besides its cultural, historical, and academic significance, Leiden is a vibrant city with a lively café and restaurant scene and a variety of cuisines for every taste.
I'm Jeroen, and I'll spare you the long introduction. ;) If you're looking for a landscape photo for your wall, you've come to the right place... Read more…