Franeker

The rich history of Franeker

Between the 11th and 16th centuries, Franeker developed into an economic, cultural and administrative centre. Bulwarks, gates, curtain walls, stately castles and a large church are evidence of these developments. The city was governed by noble families, who lived in the Stinsen. Duke Albrecht of Saxony settled in Franeker in the 15th century, and for a while it seemed that Franeker would become the capital of Friesland. When the choice fell on Leeuwarden, Franeker was rewarded with its own university in 1558. During its existence, the university enjoyed great fame, especially in theological and legal fields. In the French era (1811), it had to close its doors. Franeker’s prosperity lasted into the 18th century.

The handball city

Nowadays, Franeker is also known as the handball city. Every year, the famous PC handball match is held here, attracting thousands of visitors. The city has a special ground for it next to ‘the Bogt fan Guné’, the oldest student hostel in our country.

The Eise Eisinga Planetarium

What Franeker is still famous for is undoubtedly the Eise Eisinga Planetarium opposite the beautiful Renaissance Town Hall.The oldest working planetarium in the world was built by Eise Eisinga in the period between 1774 and 1781.Over 200 years later, you can still read the current position of the planets.Since 2023, the planetarium has rightfully been on the UNESCO World Heritage List.