Groningen is the largest city in the north of the Netherlands. Being such a small country, it would probably rank as a suburb of Amsterdam in China or the US. Nonetheless, Groningen has its own distinct style and urban vibe.
Like most Dutch cities, the street plan in the city center is pretty much medieval; the further you move away, the younger the city gets, the more urban it feels. Over 400 buildings were destroyed in World War II, most just three weeks before the Nazi capitulated. Part of the city center had to be rebuild after the liberation.
First mention in a official document was in 1040 AD. Nevertheless, people have been living here since at least 400 BC. Groningen now is the youngest and smartest city in the Netherlands, home to the second oldest university and over 50,000 students. And, o yeah, it has been my home for the last 23 years. Sure hope you enjoy the tour.
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