{"id":16155,"date":"2025-08-08T08:41:47","date_gmt":"2025-08-08T08:41:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pieterskerk.com\/gravensteen\/"},"modified":"2025-11-10T14:48:27","modified_gmt":"2025-11-10T14:48:27","slug":"gravensteen","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/pieterskerk.com\/en\/gravensteen\/","title":{"rendered":"Gravensteen"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

These tours sell out quickly. We work with a waiting list for some of the dates. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

History of Gravensteen<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Gravensteen was built in the early 13th century as a private refuge tower for the Counts of Holland and later served as the city prison. In 1463, Philip the Good donated the building to the city of Leiden, after which it further developed its role as a prison, courthouse, and house of correction. Over the centuries, the Gravensteen has also served as a book repository and university building. This historic character makes the Gravensteen one of the oldest and most iconic buildings in Leiden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Temporary Opening<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

With its recent vacancy, the Gravensteen offers a unique opportunity to showcase its rich history and iconic status to the city. The Pieterskerk Leiden has a large and experienced team of guides who are eager to provide tours of the Gravensteen. The Pieterskerk Leiden considers it an honour to organise these tours on a temporary basis. This monument, which has been closed for decades, is now being given back to the city, its residents, and its visitors through exclusive guided tours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Important Information About the Tours<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n