Culture & History in Edam

Demonstrating the finest example of the butterfly effect, this tour will tell you how a simple act of making cheese can change a town dramatically. This is what happened to Edam, which flourished in the times when the trade of its famous cheese was immense. Start your exploration at Voorhaven, the first harbour to provide the process of cheese export, where even cattle was transported by farmers within a tiny space. After that, go on to gaze at Kassmarkt, the very market where cheese was weighed and sold. For a stroke of luck, you just might end up in the hustle and bustle of the market while cheese is being traded, and even buy some! On your way, you will be reminded by every site that Edam breathes trade. Marvel at Sint Nicolaaskerk, the church named after Saint Nicholas, patron saint of chandlers and merchants. Passing by the Edam Museum, consider going inside: if you do, you are bound to get gripped by the curiosities it offers! As you make your way further, the crooked shape of Speeltoren is sure to catch your eye, and you may even hear the music produced by the old carillon. Find yourself among multiple warehouses of Nieuwehaven, the New Harbour that will tell you the history of trade in their own wording before you conclude your walk by going back to Voorhaven. Immerse yourself in the unique spirit of trade in Edam, the town whose former wealth, even nowadays, is amazing!

Discover the artistic side of the traditional fishermen village with this in-app audio tour! You will be guided by Leendert Spaander, an art lover and owner of the famous hotel in Volendam. He will take you back in time and show you the beauty and the identity of this charming little neighbour of Edam (just a 6 min ride by tram). The tour starts from the Hotel Spaander and takes you to the haven where locals used to get married, buy fish and participate in boat races. Then, you will walk through the cozy streets to find out where the first steam tram circulated, and to spot the little bridges, colorful wooden houses, and the majestic churches such as the Church of St Vincentius. As you walk, you can look at paintings in the app and occasionally take a quiz. Finally, you will return to the starting point where you can stroll through the hotel lobby which is like a real art gallery.