IJsselfront in summer

Welcome to Kampen

Kampen is an age-old Hanseatic city with an exceptionally dynamic character. The magnificent riverfront along the IJssel, the city bridge with its golden wheels, the impressive gates and the historical city centre with hundreds of monumental buildings all contribute to the city’s authentic atmosphere. And many events are organized throughout the year. There’s always something to enjoy! Allow yourself to be surprised by the highlights and discover the diversity of “open-air museum Kampen”!

Highlights

Stedelijk Museum Kampen © Foto Tennekes

Municipal Museum Kampen

The Municipal Museum is located in the former city hall of Kampen, in the middle of the historical city centre. The permanent collection of the museum is divided in four themes: water, religion, law & order and the Dutch Royal family. The highlight of the museum is the Magistrate’s Court dating back to 1545, where legal trials were held.

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Kampen cog and city skyline

The Kamper Cog

The Kamper Cog is an authentic replica of a merchant ship from the 14th century. At the nearby cog wharf, demonstrations of age-old crafts, such as forging, smoking fish, making rope and weaving wool are organised during events. The maritime history and historical shipbuilding from the Hanseatic era truly comes to life here!

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Hanseatic Day Kampen

Saint Nicolas Church or ’Bovenkerk’

The most prominent landmark along the riverfront is the oldest church in Kampen, the Bovenkerk, a large, gothic basilica built in the 14th century. In this church, where the painter Hendrick Avercamp (1585-1634) was laid to rest, the famous Hinsz organ (1742) is an international attraction and its overwhelming sound can be enjoyed frequently. The tower’s bells were cast by bell maker Geert van Wou (ca. 1450-1527), one of the most important bell makers of his time.

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Virtual offers

City-Guide App

You can follow the trade-route or the Hanzeroute and walk along many historical monuments that mark the history of trading and shipping. The app is available in the Google Play Store or the App Store under “Kampen Stadsgids”