Schoonhoven Tourist Attractions
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Schoonhoven, half way between Rotterdam and Utrecht, grew up in the 13th century at the confluence of the Lek and the Vlist and was granted a municipal charter in 1281. During the Middle Ages the town was frequently involved in conflict, and in the 15th and 16th centuries it was surrounded by a circuit of walls, with five gates. It still preserves some remains of its walls, which were planted with trees in the 17th century, and one of its gates, the Renaissance-style Veerpoort (1601). From the 14th century onwards Schoonhoven was famed for its gold and silverware.
Schoonhaven - St Bartholomeuskerk
St Bartholomeuskerk was founded in the 13th century. In 1400 it was enlarged by the addition of a choir, and in 1450 it was given a new nave and tower. The tower has long shown a tendency to lean off the vertical, and in 1930 additional supports were inserted in the interior. The stalls are carved with scenes from the life of Christ. Other notable features are the 17th century pulpit, with figures of the 12 Apostles, and the tomb of Olivier van Noort (1558-1627), the first Dutchman to circumnavigate the globe (ca. 1600).
Town Hall
The Schoonhoven Town Hall (Stadhuis) was built in 1452 in Late Gothic style but was much altered in later centuries. Restoration in the 1920s left the alterations as they were but added a doorway, staircase and windows in contemporary style. The domed hexagonal tower contains a carillon of 50 bells.
Weigh House
The Weigh House (Waag; 1617) in Schoonhoven stands on a dam above the harbor. In summer it operates as a pancake cafe.
Dutch Gold, Silver and Clock Museum
The Gold, Silver and Clock Museum (Nederlands Goud-, Ziver- en Klokkenmuseum), at Kazerneplein 4, introduces visitors to the crafts of gold- and silversmithing and clock making.
Edelambachtshuis
The Edelambachtshuis, originally a granary of 1566, displays a large collection of old silver jewelry and other examples of the silversmith's art ranging in date from 1600 to 1900.
