Delft

The town of Delft is one of the prettiest towns in the Netherlands, famous for its pottery. The compact city centre is small enough to cross on foot in less than 15 minutes, making it easy to explore. Tree-lined canals and cobbled streets wind away from Markt, Delft's large central square. The famous artist Johannes Vermeer spent his life in Delft. On the quieter streets and canals, you get an impression of the original town that inspired his lifetime of work. Delft is one of Holland's historical centres and home to the Dutch royal family, The House of Orange. William of Orange was killed and buried here in 1584 at the end of his struggle against the Spanish in the Eighty Years' War.

More about Delft

Delft is probably best known for the blue-and-white porcelain and pottery that originates from the area known as Delftware. Delft ceramics have been an important export product for more than 400 years. Royal Delft, established in 1653, is the last remaining Delftware factory from the 17th century. The world famous Royal Delftware is still entirely hand-painted according to centuries-old tradition.