Franeker, tourist information

Warehouse at the Prinshedrikkade in Franeker

Franeker is a pleasant city in the west of the province of Friesland, it is an important city within the eleven Frisian cities. With approximately 13.000 inhabitants, Franeker also has an important function for places in the area. Franeker has a pleasant city center, partly because many canals run through the city center and the city center is equipped with nice shops.

The Zuiderkade in Franeker

In the Middle Ages Franeker developed so quickly that this city would almost become the capital of Friesland. Franeker is said to have originated in the year 800. in this period Charlemagne built a 'castellum' in northern Westergo. This settlement was named in history of Franeker, probably after 'Froonacker' which means 'Land of lord/king'.

Franeker became between 11^e & 16^e century the administrative center of northern Westergo this was one of the three regions in which the current province was divided in earlier times originally this was part of the 'Franconian Empire'

In the year 1500 the city was besieged by 16000 disaffected Frisians.

At the end of the 15^e century settled duke Albert of Saxony temporarily located in Franeker. Then it seemed that this beautiful city would become the capital of Friesland. But in the year 1504 the Saxons unfortunately moved to Leeuwarden, which is now the capital. This was due to the more defensible Blokhuis (Blokhuis gate). But Franeker remained a very important city for the Saxons, until the Friesland passed as possession to Charles V.

When the Republic of the Seven Indigenous Netherlands revolted against the Spaniards. At that time Franeker chose the side of William of Orange. In 1585 Franeker was rewarded with a university. The University of France.

Unfortunately the city got hit in the 18^e century in decline this was in the French era in 1811 Napoleon closed the university.

The Martini Church in Franke

The most important monument is the beautiful old town hall, see photo above. But the entire city center has a cozy historic atmosphere and is worth a visit.

The Canal at the Raadhuisplein in Franeker

In Franeker you can enjoy shopping in the historic city center. If you need something, you have a good chance of finding it. For a large and cozy range of shops you can also visit Leeuwarden or for a nice shopping offer Sneek also a nice recommendation.

Shopping evening:
Friday

The Canal at the Raadhuisplein in Franeker

It is better not to travel to Franeker for a green natural environment. There is, however, a park with special plants, the Martena Garden, and you can relax in the larger City Park. Furthermore, you are at the coast in no time, direction Harlingen.

The Dijkstraat in Franeker

Despite the cozy town with the terraces, it's better to travel to the bustling place for the nice step work Leeuwarden.