Gasthuistoren

The Gasthuistoren is a tower in the old centre of Zaltbommel, a town on the southern bank of the river Waal in the province of Gelderland. A gasthuis was a medieval institution that offered shelter to travellers and care for the sick and poor, usually run by a religious or civic foundation, and many Dutch towns had one. The tower belonged to such a complex and dates from the sixteenth century, a period when Zaltbommel was a prosperous trading town with much influence over the surrounding river country.

The tower is a landmark in the sense that it can be seen from several points in the old centre, rising above the houses with a slim form that helps visitors orient themselves while walking. Towers of this kind often held a bell, which marked the hours and announced events, and they served as symbols of civic pride. Today the Gasthuistoren is mostly admired from the outside, as a feature in a town that is full of historic detail, although its use has changed over time and opening arrangements for the interior can vary. Check locally before assuming access.

Zaltbommel itself is a fine town for walking. It kept its medieval street pattern, and the centre is lined with gabled merchants' houses, some of them very old. The Sint-Maartenskerk, with its tall tower, dominates the skyline, and the Waterpoort, a gate on the river, recalls the days when trade came by water. The Maarten van Rossumhuis is a handsome sixteenth-century house named after a Gelderland military commander. The Stadskasteel Zaltbommel is a museum, and the ramparts and old harbour make pleasant walks.

The river adds another dimension. A dyke path on the Waal gives views across the water and the polders, and cycling routes follow the dyke for many kilometres. On warm days the terraces fill with people, and local restaurants serve regional dishes. Opening arrangements and the current use of the buildings around the tower are best checked on the spot.

The tower suits history lovers, photographers and people exploring the river towns of Gelderland. A look at the tower takes only a few minutes, but the surrounding streets reward a longer visit, and a loop through the historic centre can fill an afternoon. Zaltbommel is reachable by bus from Den Bosch and Utrecht.