Fortified city of Gorinchem
From the 13th century, Gorinchem developed, under the regime of the Lords of Arkel, into a medieval city that was granted city rights in 1382. From 1412, the Holland counts from first the Bayern, then Burgundian and then Austrian houses controlled the city until 1581 when it became part of the Republic of the United Netherlands. This was a period of great economic prosperity for Gorinchem.
The history is tangible and visible throughout the inner city. The street layout that was laid down in the 15th and 16th century is still intact. The green 16th century town ramparts have been almost completely retained. From the specially laid out walk over them, the striking town ramparts give a fascinating impression of a centuries-old fort. History has been honoured by the restoration of important historic buildings and premises to their former glory. With respect for the past, the inner city is being and has been recently renovated. Large and smaller new-build projects do justice to the valuable characteristics of the historic environment.
Gorinchem forms a corner of the triangle of fortified towns of Loevestein-Woudrichem-Gorinchem. The other forts can be visited by a ferry that leaves from 'Buiten de Waterpoort'. Fort Vuren, one of the 19th-century fortifications in the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie, also lies close to city. So in one day you can visit three provinces, experience 600 years of history and sail on two rivers around the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie.