Fortified town Woudrichem, or Woerkum, as its inhabitants say, is the only town in the Biesbosch Line. In the 9th century, a marketplace arose on a bank embankment. Today, this is where Hoogstraat and Molenstraat intersect. This place is still the heart of the fortified town.
Where Maas and Waal flow together
And Gorcum rises from afar,
There lies the town of Woudrichem,
hospitable since centuries past.
(Free after Hendrik Tollens)
Woudrichem is in full swing. Like the river: different every day, every season. Woudrichem Flows!
Discover the many faces of Woudrichem: virtually on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and live using the city tour in the guide Woudrichem flows.
Woudrichem is strategically located at the confluence of Maas and Waal, at the junction of 3 provinces. The Land of Altena, to which Woudrichem belongs, belonged to the County of Holland from 1322. Only in 1815 was it assigned to the new province of North Brabant.
Woudrichem received city rights in 1356. In that year, the burial river toll of Niemandsvriend was also moved from Sliedrecht to Woudrichem. A few years later, the town also received fishing rights, and flourished. The Martinus Church and city walls date back to this time.
In 1420, the toll was moved to Gorinchem. This event, the Saint Elizabeth Flood of 1421 and the many military conflicts the town was involved in because of its location, caused the decline of the town.
The many sieges have left their mark in Woudrichem. In 1573, the Beggars set fire to the town. They considered it indefensible. A new city wall was then thrown up, protecting a smaller area than the old city wall had done. This city wall is the fortified town wall that still surrounds the center.
In 1814, Woudrichem became part of the New Dutch Waterline. No construction was allowed in the surrounding land from then on. It was not until 1955 that the fortified town was disbanded and new residential areas were built around the town.
The historic city center is a protected cityscape.
The fortified town of Woudrichem is small, perfect for exploring on foot. Wander through the old streets and past all the historical highlights: the Martinus Church, the windmill, the ramparts, the historic harbor and the prisoners' gate. Want some more information? Then go out on your own with our city walk, walk a scavenger hunt or be led around by one of the guides from our City Guides Guild. They can also help you climb the Martinus Tower. Find more inspiration on this page.
Woudrichem; cozy, small, warm and friendly. But several times a year the fortified town shakes on its foundations. Because then it is time for a number of regular events.
Ascension Day is the day of the annual National Fish Baking Competition. On that day, the countless visitors enjoy salmon and gurnards baked on fire pits in the streets. Shanty choirs, stalls and a fair complete the celebration.
Once a year, Woudrichem transforms into the old fishing town of yesteryear. The authentic fishing fleet makes its appearance, and the fortified town is filled with demonstrations of old crafts and fishing techniques. Rowing races on the Meuse and fishing choirs on the streets make the Fishing Days an event not to be missed.