History of Leerdam

The municipality of Leerdam comprises the town of Leerdam, the rural villages Kedichem and Schoonrewoerd and the hamlet of Oosterwijk. The small river Linge, bordered by beautiful water meadows, defines the atmosphere and tone of the landscape. Several centuries ago Leerdam formed a part of the Vijfheerenlanden domain, before it was raised to the level of County in 1498. The rich history of Leerdam can be found in well-kept historic buildings such as the Grote Kerk (Great Church), the Hofje van mevrouw van Aerden, the remaining and restored city walls on the Zuidwal and the Oude Raadhuis (Old City Hall).

Glass industry

From the 18th century the town culture was strongly influenced by the glass industry and the timber industry. The current glass industry of the Vereenigde Glasfabrieken is known internationally as ‘Royal Leerdam’. During the summer months international glassblowers work in the Glass Centre in Leerdam, which is open to the public. Near Leerdam lies the fort Asperen, which formed a part of the Hollandse Waterlinie (land flooded as a defence line). There are various walking and cycle routes in the neighbourhood of Leerdam.

How the ancient craft of glassblowing is practised can be seen in the Glascentrum Leerdam from mid April to end October. International glassblowers are at work here daily (except Mondays) with a blowpipe, liquid glass and a red-hot furnace.