Explore A Real Roman Fort In Holland
Castellum Hoge Woerd: The Legacy of the Roman Empire
See Traces of an Ancient Superpower
The gigantic Castellum Hoge Woerd stands as a captivating blend of history, culture, and fun for kids and adults alike. Located in Utrecht’s Leidsche Rijn neighborhood, this modern reconstruction of a 30 AD Roman fort offers visitors a unique experience that combines archeology, nature, and theater for an international audience.
The structure is situated on the spot where ancient soldiers once guarded the limes—a series of forts that once bordered the Roman empire. Behind its high walls, visitors can explore various facets of this historical site as detailed below.
Archeological Museum: Step into the past as you marvel at special archaeological finds. Artifacts include projectiles, horseshoes, bridles, fish traps, needles, weapons, tools, sandals, coins, and lots of pottery shards (amphora fragments).
The pride of the collection is a 2,000-year-old Roman riverboat that once carried important cargo. Found in 1930 during excavation works nearby, the 80-foot-long watercraft laid buried in mud for centuries – yet much of the ship remains intact and it is well preserved for analysis and conservation.
Theater and Performances: Castellum Hoge Woerd hosts theater, dance, cabaret, music, and family performances on a regular basis. Many evenings the ancient walls come alive with artistic expressions, connecting the past and present. Check the website for complete details, though remember most of it will be in Dutch.
Nature and Environmental Education: A research center within the fort focuses on nature and environmental education. Visitors can learn about local flora, fauna, and sustainable practices.
Café-Restaurant: The Castellum Café offers a delightful setting for coffee, lunch, drinks, or dinner and enjoy the terrace overlooking the fort’s panoramic views.
ACTORS RECREATE BATTLE SCENES FOR VISITORS
25 METER LONG ROMAN RIVER BOAT
THE THEATER HAS 230 SEATS FOR SPECTATORS
Castellum Ticket Prices
- The museum is free to everyone!
- Fees apply to special programs & shows
- Visitors under 16 need an adult companion
Open Tuesday to Sunday 10 am to 5 pm. Sometimes evening hours apply for special events, consult the website.
Getting There
By Foot or Bike : Follow the scenic bike paths from Utrecht Centraal to Leidsche Rijn and onward to Castellum using GPS. The museum is a 25-minute bike ride from Utrecht Centraal. The 90 minute walk isn’t practical for tourists.
By Public Transport : The best option is to take bus #4 from Utrecht Centraal for 20 minute door-to-door service to bus stop “De Woerd”. Bus #28 also stops about 500m away at stop “De Meembrug” if you don’t mind walking.
By Car : Good news! Access by car is not only possible, but copious free parking is available onsite. Take the A12 to exit 15 ‘De Meern’ and follow the N198. Turn left onto Langerakbaan & follow the brown signs to the Castellum.
Address: Hoge Woerdplein 1, De Meern 3454 PB, Utrecht Phone : 30 286 0084 Email: info@podiumhogewoerd.nl
ENGAGING EXHIBITS FOR ALL AGES
ROMAN TRINKETS AND GOLD COINS ON DISPLAY
ANCIENT TOOLS & ARTIFACTS DISCOVERED NEARBY
ROMAN LONG SPEAR FROM THE 1ST CENTURY AD
Castellum Hoge Woerd Videos
The video above gives a nice overview of the museum.
A museum mini-documentary in Dutch (Use CC subtitles)
Explore Utrecht with a local guide
Make a walking tour part of your visit: about two hours, starting at Domplein by the Resistance Monument beside the Dom Tower. The booking fee is €2 per person, with optional tips for your guide.
Choose your date & book Private tours
Plan the rest of your visit
Sightseeing · City Parks & Gardens · Canal Tours & Boat Rentals