Courtyards
This gate used to gave access to the training grounds of the two Leiden ‘schutterijen‘ or civic guards, where archery, shooting and sword fighting was practiced.
Walk through the gate, along the Doelengracht and where you see old facades appearing on the other side, there is also a side entrance to a courtyard.
Leiden has 35 different courtyards, the first dates back to 1467. Please note; most are free to visit, but each courtyard deserves peace and serenity and has its own house rules. We ask you to respect these.