Ootmarsum

Ootmarsum, a captivating town in the Dutch province of Overijssel, feels alive with its past, where art flourishes in every corner. Known as the 'Art Town of the East,' it is celebrated for its dynamic art scene, with numerous galleries displaying local and international artists amidst inviting, winding streets.

Stroll through its authentic alleys and admire beautifully preserved historic buildings, which together create a welcoming atmosphere that encourages unhurried discovery. Beyond its artistic and historical core, Ootmarsum is encircled by the picturesque bocage landscape of the Twente region, offering ample opportunities for cycling and walking through gentle natural areas, rustling woodlands, and past ancient watermills.

Ootmarsum's origins reach back to ancient times, with one of the first churches in Twente constructed here around 770 AD. The town gained significant religious prominence when Radboud, Bishop of Utrecht, passed away in Ootmarsum in November 917. By the year 1000, it had developed into one of the largest parishes in the Twente region.

City rights were bestowed upon Ootmarsum in 1325, leading to its transformation into a fortress, fortified with ditches and earthworks for defense. However, its strategic position also made it a prize during conflicts. In the 16th century, Ootmarsum was occupied by the Spanish during the Eighty Years' War. It was eventually taken by Maurice, Prince of Orange, in 1597, a siege that left a cannonball still visible in the church today, a tangible connection to that turbulent era.

For centuries, Ootmarsum's development unfolded more slowly than many other Dutch towns, largely due to its bypassing major industrialization and the arrival of train and boat connections. This fortunate circumstance contributed to the remarkable preservation of its historic center, allowing visitors today to experience a direct link to its past. The town was a separate municipality until 2001, when it became part of Dinkelland.

The Jewish community also played a role in Ootmarsum's chronicles, beginning around 1700 with the arrival of a meat butcher. The community grew, establishing a synagogue and school in 1843, though these were lost to fire and later rebuilt. The cloth and damask factory of the Bendien family, founded in 1813, was a significant economic contributor. Sadly, the Jewish community ceased to exist in Ootmarsum in 1924, merging with that of Oldenzaal, and a monument now stands on Kloosterstraat to remember those lost during the war.

Begin your journey in the historic town center, where narrow, often car-free streets invite leisurely walks past beautiful facades and traditional buildings like the Cremershuis and Drostenhuis. The Sint-Simon en Judaskerk stands as a prominent landmark, an impressive church with portions dating back to the 12th century, and a cannonball from the 1597 siege still embedded in its walls.

Ootmarsum is celebrated as an art town, with numerous galleries lining its picturesque streets. A visit for art enthusiasts is the Museum Ton Schulten, dedicated to the colorful mosaic landscapes of the renowned local artist, Ton Schulten. You can also explore the Openluchtmuseum Ootmarsum (Open Air Museum Ootmarsum), which features 16 authentic buildings depicting rural life in Twente over a century ago, offering a glimpse into traditional farm life and craftsmanship.

Just beyond the center, the Kuiperberg provides expansive views of the surrounding Twente landscape, an orientation table from 1926, and an 'art wall' detailing Ootmarsum's history. For a distinctive experience, consider a tour and tasting at the Othmar Brewery, which also offers a unique 'Bierspa'.

The ideal time to visit Ootmarsum for warm-weather pursuits is from late June to late August, when average daily high temperatures exceed 66°F (19°C) and skies are clearest. This period also aligns with the lively Siepelmarkt, a traditional folklore market held on select Thursdays in July and August, featuring crafts, performances, and a 'Twente Farmers' Wedding'. The celebrated 'Art in Ootmarsum' open-air art event takes place annually during the last full weekend of August. While May saw the most visitors last year, exploring during other months might mean fewer crowds at popular locations.

Ootmarsum is easily explored on foot, its compact and inviting historic center best navigated by wandering its streets and courtyards. While the town does not possess its own train station, it is accessible by bus from nearby train stations in Hengelo or Almelo. Driving is also a convenient option, with parking available in the town center. If flying, Groningen Eelde (GRQ) is approximately 51 miles distant, and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is another popular, though further, option.

Shops and galleries typically open around 10 AM and close between 5 PM and 6 PM, with varied hours on Sundays and public holidays; weekends are generally busier. Many art galleries offer free entry. A tourist information point is available to provide maps, brochures, and local advice, and guided walking tours are often available.