Prinsentuin - Groningen

A walled green surprise in the lively heart of Groningen: that’s the Prinsentuin. This beautiful Renaissance courtyard garden was created in 1626, commissioned by Sophia Hedwig of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel and her husband Ernst Casimir of Nassau-Dietz. Hidden behind the Prinsenhof – which once served as the residence of the stadtholder – you’ll find a rose garden, a herb garden and berceaus (leafy walkways) you can stroll under at your leisure.

One of the garden beds features boxwood hedges shaped into crowned letters W and A – a later addition referring to Willem Frederik and Albertine Agnes, descendants of the Nassau family.

Don’t miss the sundial near the entrance on the Turfsingel. This ornate sundial from 1731 shows not only the local time but also the length of the day, sunrise and sunset times, and even Babylonian and Italian hours. The Latin motto above it translates as: “Past time is nothing, the future uncertain, the present unstable. Be careful not to waste yours.”

You can enter the garden through a gate at the back of the Prinsenhof. Lock up your bike, and enjoy a peaceful walk through this green piece of history.