Delft: Hugo de Groot Walking Tour｜Netherlands

The name Hugo de Groot might sound familiar to most of us. But what exactly he became famous for… that’s often harder to recall. Yet Hugo de Groot is one of the most renowned figures in Delft’s history. He was a jurist, statesman, and historian. Many know him especially for his spectacular escape from Loevestein Castle. He also authored several books, the most important of which were about the freedom of the seas and the laws of war and peace. Some of his ideas are still relevant today. What was his life in Delft like? And what led to his imprisonment?

The walking tour starts and ends at the Markt in Delft, where a statue of Hugo de Groot, also known as Hugo Grotius, has stood since 1886. We gather at this statue. The tour follows the life story of Hugo de Groot and the events in the city during his time. It is a short walk (approximately 2 km) that takes about 1.5 hours.