History
Coevorden, the oldest city in Drenthe, is a vibrant fortress town located in the southern part of the province. With its medieval castle as a focal point, this city takes you on a fascinating journey through time. Once a crucial defense post of the Holy Roman Empire, Coevorden is now a thriving community with a rich history and lively energy.
The city used to serve as the gateway to all of the North of the Netherlands. Travelers could only safely cross the Drenthe swamps at Coevorden. They did this through 'koevoorden,' which are fordable spots in the marsh. This allowed people to reach the northern parts of the Netherlands with livestock and even armies.
The Castle in Coevorden, dating back to the 11th century, is one of the oldest castles in the Netherlands. It served as a defensive structure and played a significant role during the Eighty Years' War. In the 20th century, the castle underwent restoration and became a monumental building. Today, it is known as the Fletcher Hotel-Restaurant Kasteel Coevorden, where guests can dine, drink, celebrate weddings, attend events, organize business meetings, and stay overnight in Pakhuis De Vlijt.
The Castle, the Gouvernementshuis, and Pakhuis De Vlijt were developed as a complex to enhance the attractiveness of the city center. This initiative restored these historical buildings to their former glory, bringing back a significant amount of character to the historic city center.
