|
Franeker, famous for its Planetarium and for being the home town of the singer Nienke, is a town with broad streets and deep gardens. The terp village of Franeker acquired a charter in 1290. In the period between 1492 and 1506, the town became the place of residence of the Stadholder Albrecht van Saksen and his son. They were also responsible for the construction of the town’s moat and its bulwarks and gates. The Martenahuis was also built in around the same time (1498). This building is the best preserved ‘stins’ (fortified home for the gentry) in Franeker. The Cammingahuis, which now houses the Friesland Bank, is also a ‘stins’ dating from the 14th century. The gothic Martini church (which dates from around 1421) with its choir stalls and wall paintings is further evidence that Franeker used to be a wealthy town.
|
