Gemeenlandshuis van Delfland
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Gemeenlandshuis van Delfland

4.8
·43 reviews·Delft, Netherlands

Delft's oldest stone house (1505), a stunning late Gothic gem and historic seat of the Delfland Water Authority.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for photos

CrowdLow
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Gemeenlandshuis van Delfland

Gemeenlandshuis van Delfland

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Delft's oldest stone house (1505), a stunning late Gothic gem and historic seat of the Delfland Water Authority.

4.8
(43 reviews)

"This fascinating house deserves to be advertised more frequently by Delft tourism responsibles."

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📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture the building's beauty from across the canal or nearby streets.

📍 Location, Location!

It's conveniently located near the Old Church and Museum Prinsenhof Delft.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Late Gothic Architecture

Late Gothic Architecture

Marvel at the intricate details of this 1505 building, a prime example of late Gothic style in Delft.

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Historic Coats of Arms

Historic Coats of Arms

Examine the detailed coats of arms above the entrance, dating back to 1652.

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Canal-side Location

Canal-side Location

Enjoy its picturesque setting by the canal, offering beautiful views and photo opportunities.

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A Glimpse into History

Discover the Gemeenlandshuis van Delfland, Delft's oldest stone house, built in 1505. It's been the headquarters of the Delfland Water Authority since 1645, a testament to the region's long history of water management. Reddit

Exterior Charm

While interior visits are limited, the stunning late Gothic architecture and coats of arms make the exterior a must-see. Admire the intricate details and imagine centuries of history unfolding. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Evening
Why
Beautifully lit facade
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A brief introduction to Delftware, the blue & white porcelain that took the world by storm in the 17th c. #designhistory #delft #interiordesign
@alexander_widener
23.3K likes • 133.5K views

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture the building's beauty from across the canal or nearby streets. Instagram+1

📍 Location, Location!

It's conveniently located near the Old Church and Museum Prinsenhof Delft. Reddit

🤣😂 DELFT SE MENSE SE NET NEE DELFT ISI DANGEROUS NIE #relatable #foryou #DELFT
@gerswinh
20.5K likes • 656K views
- Mommy, I know exactly why this is your favorite building in Delft! 🧐 - Really? Tell me why, Hana?😊 - Well, it must be because of those beautiful windows and all of those “drawings” on it. It looks like a castle. It is now my favorite building too” 😇❤️ Can you spot my curious little girl in the front of The #gemeenlandshuis?😍 . . . . . . . #prettylittleiiinspo #myseasonalstory #delftblue #delftce...
shapingsmiles
127 likes • 0 views

🧐 Admire the Details

Look closely at the coats of arms and architectural elements for a deeper appreciation. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Area

Enjoy a walk along Oude Delft street to soak in the historic atmosphere. Instagram

Hidden behind autumn leaves, you can find one of the most stunning medieval buildings in Holland. Het Gemeenlandshuis in Delft!
hommeserieux
89 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture the building's beauty from across the canal or nearby streets. Instagram+1

📍 Location, Location!

It's conveniently located near the Old Church and Museum Prinsenhof Delft. Reddit

🧐 Admire the Details

Look closely at the coats of arms and architectural elements for a deeper appreciation. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Area

Enjoy a walk along Oude Delft street to soak in the historic atmosphere. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(43 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Gemeenlandshuis van Delfland as a magnificent and well-preserved historic building, noting its significance as Delft's oldest stone house and the long-standing home of the Delfland Water Authority. While interior access is limited, its impressive late Gothic architecture and canal-side location make it a recommended sight for history enthusiasts and those exploring Delft. InstagramReddit

"This is the oldest stone-built house in Delft, built in 1505. The coats of arms on the house dated back to 1652. The Delfland Water Authority has been based in this late Gothic house since 1645. Very close to the centre and Museum Prinsenhof Delft, definitely a must-see. I think this fascinating house deserves to be advertised more frequently by Delft tourism responsibles with the aim of making it a known place."

çağdaş beşoğul

"This late Gothic house is the oldest stone-built house in Delft. It was commissioned to be built by the baliff and dike reeve, Jan de Huyter, in 1505.

The Delfland Water Authority has been based in this building Since 1645. The Water Authorities are the oldest government institutions in the Netherlands. They are responsible for flood protection, good water quality, surface water level management and sewage treatment."

Klara Dohnalkova

"This late Gothic house is the oldest stone-built house in Delft. It was commissioned to be built by the bailiff and dike reeve, Jan de Huyter, in 1505. The coats of arms above the entrance date back to 1652 and were designed by Pieter Post, a Dutch Golden Age architect and painter. The Delfland Water Authority has been based in this building since 1645. The Water Authorities are the oldest government institutions in the Netherlands. They are responsible for flood protection, good water quality, surface water level management and sewage treatment. Hoogheemraadschap van Delfland"

Kevin Luck

What People Like

Magnificent historic building
Oldest stone house in Delft
Impressive architecture

What People Dislike

Limited interior access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Gemeenlandshuis van Delfland is easily accessible by foot within Delft's city center. It's located on Oude Delft street, near the Old Church and Museum Prinsenhof Delft. InstagramReddit

Parking in Delft's city center can be challenging. It's recommended to use public transport or park in one of the city's parking garages, such as Marktgarage or Phoenixgarage, and walk to the location. TikTok

Yes, Delft Central Station is a short walk or bus ride away from the city center. From the station, it's a pleasant walk to the Gemeenlandshuis van Delfland. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Currently, interior visits to the Gemeenlandshuis van Delfland are not generally possible as it serves as the active headquarters for the Delfland Water Authority. However, the exterior is a magnificent sight. Reddit

There is no entrance fee to view the exterior of the Gemeenlandshuis van Delfland, as it is a historic building on a public street. Reddit

The exterior of the Gemeenlandshuis van Delfland can be viewed at any time, as it is located on a public street. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

For the best light and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon. The building is also beautifully illuminated at night. Instagram

General photography for personal use is usually permitted. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of the building's function as an active office and avoid intrusive photography. Instagram

Try capturing the building from across the canal for a classic view, or from street level to appreciate its architectural details and coats of arms. Instagram+1

🎫 🏛️ History & Significance

Built in 1505, it's Delft's oldest stone house and has been the headquarters of the Delfland Water Authority since 1645, representing centuries of water management in the region. InstagramReddit

The house was commissioned by Jan de Huyter, the bailiff and dike reeve, in 1505. Reddit

The coats of arms above the entrance, dating back to 1652, represent the Water Board, the dike governor, water councils, secretary, and steward. InstagramReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Gemeenlandshuis van Delfland itself doesn't offer interactive exhibits for children, its imposing architecture and canal-side location make for an interesting stop during a family stroll through Delft. Point out the coats of arms and imagine the history of water management. InstagramReddit

Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Museum Prinsenhof Delft or a walk through the charming streets. For a more kid-focused activity, consider the kinderboerderij Tanthof (animal farm) in Delft, which offers free entry and is a great way to entertain younger visitors. TikTok

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by Dutch history, the Gemeenlandshuis van Delfland is a must-see. As Delft's oldest stone house (1505), it offers a tangible connection to the past. Delve into the history of the Delfland Water Authority, one of the Netherlands' oldest governmental bodies, and understand its crucial role in water management. Reddit+1

Take time to appreciate the late Gothic architecture and the detailed coats of arms above the entrance, which provide insights into the period. Its proximity to other historical sites like the Old Church and Museum Prinsenhof Delft makes it an easy addition to a historical walking tour of the city. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvel: A Late Gothic Gem

The Gemeenlandshuis van Delfland stands as a remarkable example of late Gothic architecture, a style characterized by its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and ornate decoration. Built in 1505, it is recognized as the oldest stone-built house in Delft. Its imposing facade, with intricate detailing and the prominent coats of arms above the entrance, speaks to the wealth and importance of its original commissioners and its long-standing role. InstagramReddit

Visitors are often struck by the building's historical presence, especially its setting along the Oude Delft canal. While the interior is not typically open to the public, the exterior alone offers a compelling glimpse into the past. The coats of arms, designed by the renowned Dutch Golden Age architect Pieter Post, add a layer of historical and artistic significance, dating back to 1652. InstagramReddit

The building's enduring appeal lies in its preservation and its continuous use. It has served as the headquarters for the Delfland Water Authority since 1645, making it a living monument to the region's crucial water management history. This longevity underscores its architectural integrity and its importance to the local heritage. InstagramReddit

The Delfland Water Authority: Guardians of the Water

The Gemeenlandshuis van Delfland is more than just a historic building; it's the operational heart of the Delfland Water Authority (Hoogheemraadschap van Delfland). This institution is one of the oldest government bodies in the Netherlands, with a mandate stretching back centuries. Their responsibilities are vital for the region's safety and well-being, encompassing flood protection, maintaining good water quality, managing surface water levels, and overseeing sewage treatment. Reddit+1

Since 1645, this late Gothic house has been the central hub for these critical operations. The presence of the Water Authority here highlights the historical and ongoing importance of water management in the low-lying Netherlands. The building itself, with its sturdy stone construction, reflects the enduring nature of the work undertaken within its walls. InstagramReddit

Recent efforts, such as the installation of solar panels on the roof, demonstrate a commitment to modern sustainability while respecting the building's historical significance. These panels contribute to making the headquarters climate-neutral, a forward-thinking approach for such an established institution. Instagram

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