A Quick Guide to Delft

The historic town centre of Delft in the Netherlands is well preserved, with its medieval origins apparent. During the Golden Age, the town developed into a wealthy merchants' town, with a chamber of the Dutch East India Company, and famous scientists and painters residing there. The most famous painter of course, was Johannes Vermeer, who was born there and was influenced by the colours, light and atmosphere of Delft, so very apparent in much of his work.
There’s also a strong royal influence in Delft. The Nieuwe Kerk church houses the royal vault where the members of the Dutch Royal Family rest in peace.

Vermeer centre Delft

Delft is the city of the famous painter Johannes Vermeer. His many masterpieces have spread all over the world, yet Vermeer lived and worked in Delft throughout his entire life.

In April 2007, the Vermeer centre opened its doors with a multimedia presentation about Vermeer’s work, his life and about the 17th-century Delft he inhabited. A visit to the centre will make you see Vermeer’s work and Delft in a different light. For more information: www.delft.com.

A walk around Delft

There is a Vermeer ‘trail’ that you can follow around Delft, to experience the various periods in the artist’s life. The walk (which you can follow as you please) takes you to see the famous ‘View of Delft’ as painted by Vermeer in his masterpiece, to the beautiful church in the heart of Delft where he was baptised as a baby on the Great Market Square, and even to the Voldersgracht on which it is believed that Vermeer modelled his ‘The Little Street’ painting. A highly educational experience!
Famous Delftware

The famous blue & white Delftware is of course world renowned. Earthenware factories in Delft date back to the seventeenth century, when the Dutch East Indian Company brought Chinese porcelain over to Holland. The most famous Delft workshop, which still exists today, is the Royal Porceleyne Fles, where you can see delftware being hand-made and even give it a go yourself.
Delft way of life

Delft is a student town, which is reflected in the many restaurants, cafes and pubs. Wander round the lovely little streets and the old market square, and stop off at one of the many typical old Dutch cafés, grand cafés, intimate eating places or top restaurants. You’ll be spoilt for choice, and once you’ve experienced the laid back way of life here, you won’t want to leave!


Sournce : www.delft.com