Culture and History in the Singelpark

Since 1659, a six-kilometer-long moat has surrounded the historic city center of Leiden. These moats, known as the "Leidse singels," are among the largest remaining city fortifications in Europe, and their structure remains intact. Until 1896, the singels marked the city limits, meaning that Leiden's train station was technically in the neighbouring town of Oegstgeest at that time.Leidens residents took the initiative in the creation of the Singelpark. One large connected park, created from the unique cultural heritage locations within the city. Would you like to be a part of the group who took this initiative? Join the Friends of the Singelpark.The walk is about 6.5 kilometers long and takes around 2 hours. The tour starts at the bridge over the Rijnsburgersingel near the Museum of Ethnology, but you can begin anywhere, maybe where you last left off. The recommended route follows a counterclockwise direction.The route is marked by specially designed icons of animals and plants in bright colors. At the start and end of each section, you'll see stylized “gates” with information boards explaining that particular part of the Singelpark.And finally, here are some Practical Tips1. Download the walk using a good Wi-Fi connection to avoid high data charges.2. Open the tour only when you're at your starting location to avoid missing locations.3. Turn off Wi-Fi and use 3G or 4G during the walk.4. Follow the blue line on your screen using GPS, then you won’t get lost!If you want to walk the route again, clear your visit history in the app via: Menu > User Preferences > Clear Visit History.Anyone using the printed version of this walk can follow the black line on the map.From The Friends of the Singelpark, enjoy your walk!