Open Monument Day 2024
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September 14 and 15 is the day: Open Monument Day 2024! These days offer visitors a unique opportunity to discover the fascinating history and stories behind buildings. Buildings that you may walk past every day, but have never had the chance to look inside. The event, part of the European Heritage Days (EHD), annually highlights a unique theme. This year's theme is "Heritage of routes, networks and connections."
Throughout history, people and societies have been on the move, driven by war, trade, pilgrimage and exploration. This has led to the development of roads, trade networks and means of communication that continue to connect our world today. These routes and networks form a crossroads of the past, present and future, and offer insights into how these connections have developed over time.
A number of our colleagues recommend special places that you must have seen during the Open Monument Day. Each with its own unique story about routes, networks and connections…
1. Ruins of Nuwendoorn – Schagen
Agnes, one of our Marketing & Communications toppers, recommends the ruins of Nuwendoorn. “The beaches and nature in the Kop van Noord-Holland are of course great, but the rich history of this region is also really worth it. The castle from 1282 used to be by the sea, as part of a network of castles. Driving through the picturesque West Frisian landscape, you suddenly see the large tower appear on the horizon. It gives the same view as centuries ago. And good to know: after Open Monument Day, the ruins are closed to the public again until next year, so this is your last chance!”
2. Former Sick Ward of the Abbey Church – Aduard
This impressive abbey church is a remnant of the old Cistercian monastery, completed in 1297. This monument is recommended by our colleague Emma Heinhuis. “This building was once an infirmary for monks. It was part of one of the largest abbeys in all of Europe and was an important part of the religious networks of that time. The entire complex must have been an impressive sight. Unfortunately, the monastery was destroyed in the 16th century and only this building remained intact. Via a digital 3D reconstruction you can now walk through the historic streets of Aduard, really special!”.
3. Assumburg Castle – Heemskerk
According to Public Outreach Project Officer Jasmijn van Dijk, you really have to visit Assumburg Castle during Open Monument Day. “For Sunday, I recommend Assumburg Castle in Heemskerk. The building itself is beautiful, it is located in a beautiful area and normally you can only go inside if you are staying at the inn. During Open Monument Day, there is a guided tour every hour, so grab your chance!”
4. Fortifications – Naarden 
Anne recommends a walk through the Naarden Fortress. “Naarden is a great place to stay every year during the Open Monument Day. With a packed program, there is something to do throughout the fortified city. I personally always love a walk along the ramparts, because in addition to the heritage, you can also admire the beautiful view. At the Gele Loods, the visitors center, they have tips for beautiful walking routes.”
5. Ruins of Brederode
Merle, our historical researcher, recommends the Ruins of Brederode. “From the towers of this former castle, one could keep a good eye on the surroundings. In this way, the lords of Brederode had control over the Herenweg, which was regularly used by the Count of Holland, among others. You can climb the towers yourself during Open Monument Day!”
6. Sassenpoort – Zwolle
According to construction project leader Robin Koot, you should not miss the Sassenpoort in Zwolle. “This historic city gate was once one of the three gateways to Zwolle. The Sassenpoort gave you access to the route to Deventer. During Open Monument Day, the Sassenpoort is also part of an important route – it is one of the stops on the 'Hop On Hop Off train', which runs through the city centre of Zwolle.”
Other tips
These are not the only monuments of Monumentenbezit that you can visit during the Open Monument Day. You can also visit the Ruïne van Strijen , which is normally closed to the public. Built around 1289 and once an important point within the Zuiderwaterlinie, this place offers a unique view of the history of the region.
Or explore the historic Castle Tower of IJsselstein , the only remnant of a once imposing castle. The tower houses the former Secretarie van de Drost and the old prison. During Open Monument Day, admire the exhibition 'Verbonden Stad' by Museum IJsselstein, of which the tower is a branch.
Huis te Manpad is also open this year, where you can also find our Memorial Needle . Furthermore, the Sint-Lievensmonstertoren in Zierikzee and the Sint-Bavokerk in Aardenburg are also open to the public.
Program
During Open Monument Day, thousands of monuments in the Netherlands are opened to the general public, in order to increase public interest in monuments and support for monument care. You can also choose to follow a route along various monuments and all kinds of activities are organised. Plan your visit via the Open Monument Day website.
