De Roode Steen in Hoorn

Right in the heart of Hoorn town centre lies the Roode Steen. A square with historic façades, terraces and a generous dash of history. Here, all you really need to do is take a moment to look around.

In the heart of historic Hoorn

De Roode Steen is one of the best-known spots in Hoorn city centre. The square is lined with historic buildings, including the listed Westfries Museum. But even without a visit to the museum, there’s plenty to see here. Take a seat on a terrace, admire the façades or stroll from the square further along the Grote Oost. The harbour isn’t far away either. So, whilst you’re right in the heart of the city, you can walk to the water’s edge in just a few minutes.

A square with a rich history

Centuries of history lie beneath and around the Roode Steen. During archaeological research at the Westfries Museum, remains of Hoorn oldest stone house were discovered, possibly dating from the 14th century. Medieval walls, cellars and a stone stair tower were also unearthed.

The statue of Jan Pieterszoon Coen

In the centre…

In the heart of historic Hoorn

De Roode Steen is one of the best-known spots in Hoorn city centre. The square is lined with historic buildings, including the listed Westfries Museum. But even without a visit to the museum, there’s plenty to see here. Take a seat on a terrace, admire the façades or stroll from the square further along the Grote Oost. The harbour isn’t far away either. So, whilst you’re right in the heart of the city, you can walk to the water’s edge in just a few minutes.

A square with a rich history

Centuries of history lie beneath and around the Roode Steen. During archaeological research at the Westfries Museum, remains of Hoorn oldest stone house were discovered, possibly dating from the 14th century. Medieval walls, cellars and a stone stair tower were also unearthed.

The statue of Jan Pieterszoon Coen

In the centre of the Roode Steen stands the statue of Jan Pieterszoon Coen. The statue has stood there for over a hundred years and is still a topic of conversation. His role in the history of the Dutch East India Company (VOC) and the colonial past is viewed and discussed from various perspectives.

Practical information

Location: Roode Steen, Hoorn town centre
Access: free entry
Nearby: Westfries Museum, Grote Oost and the historic city centre
Good to know: the Westfries Museum is closed for restoration until mid-2027. For a museum experience during the closure, you can visit the Statenpoort.

Frequently Asked Questions

De Roode Steen is a historic square in the centre of Hoorn. Here you’ll find listed buildings, restaurants and cafés, and the Westfries Museum.

On and around the square, you’ll see historic façades, the Westfries Museum and the statue of Jan Pieterszoon Coen. From here, it’s easy to continue your walk through the old town.

Yes. The statue stands in the centre of the Roode Steen. Discussions still take place around the statue regarding Coen’s role in the colonial past and the way in which that history is recounted.

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