Paushuize

Utrecht


You can't usually go inside unless attending a conference here, but it's well worth admiring the exterior of this splendid 500-year-old mansion which was originally built as a pied-à-terre by Adriaan Boeyens who would go on to become the first and only Dutch-born Pope (Adrian VI) in 1522.

Outside, a verdigris-green statue portrays him like a penniless, cassocked hermit. But in reality he was immensely wealthy.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Utrecht attractions

1. Pandhof

0.07 MILES

Between the Domkirk and Academiegebouw, a gateway leads through to this charming little formal garden ringed by 15th-century Gothic cloisters.

2. Academiegebouw

0.07 MILES

Behind a distinctively spired, neo-Renaissance facade dating from 1892, lie the much older ceremonial buildings of Utrecht's multisite university. The…

3. Pieterskerk

0.07 MILES

His body has gone, but the 1054 sarcophagus of Utrecht's Prince-Bishop Bernold still lies in the crypt of the 1048 Pieterskerk. That's one of four Utrecht…

4. Domkerk

0.08 MILES

The cathedral's eastern end survived the 1674 hurricane and now forms a curiously truncated – if still impressive – place of prayer.

5. Dom Under

0.11 MILES

Talented volunteer guides and fascinating educational films with CGI effects set the historical scene. Then it's your turn to become an amateur…

6. Domtoren

0.12 MILES

Utrecht's most striking medieval landmark, this 112m tower is worth the 465-step climb for unbeatable city views: on a clear day you can see Amsterdam…

7. Flora's Hof

0.13 MILES

This petite walled garden, tucked behind the Steven Sterk bookshop, makes a peaceful retreat from which to stare up and observe the Domtoren.

8. Sint-Willibrod-Kerk

0.19 MILES

Easily missed, this 1877 neo-Gothic church has a gorgeously colourful interior with splendid stained glass, pattern-painted columns and plentiful gilt…