Dordrecht
Dordrecht originated almost a thousand years ago on the bog river the Thuredrith and was in 1220 the first city in Holland to be granted city privileges. The city has played an important part in Holland in the field of trade, politics and religion. In Dordrecht’s more than 1000 monuments, its rich past can easily be recalled, particularly in the historic harbour area. For example, in 1572 a historic meeting took place in the Hof, which led to the coming into being of the Kingdom of the Netherlands: the First Free State Assembly, in which Prince William of Orange was chosen as leader. The National Synod in 1618/1619 brought an end to the religious differences between remonstrants and counter-remonstrants. The Synod, held in Dordrecht, also gave the order 
for the bible to be translated into Dutch: the Statenbijbel [State bible]. Worth a visit are the collection of Dutch paintings in the Dordrechts Museum and the unique period rooms in the museum Simon van Gijn - museum at home.
The most important monuments and museums are located along the route of ‘Rondje Dordt’ [Dordrecht walk], a signposted city walk. A Waterrondje [Water trip] through the old city harbours can be made on the whisper boat Dordtevaar. In addition to all the monuments already mentioned and the Grote Kerk and Groothoofdspoort, there is a lot of green in Dordrecht. A part of the Biesbosch National Park lies on Dordrecht territory. There are ample opportunities here for recreation and the enjoyment of nature.