Utrecht began as a Roman fortress on the banks of the Rhine in the 1st century AD, guarding the empire’s northern frontier. By the Middle Ages it had grown into one of the most important religious centers of the Low Countries, with the Dom Church and its towering spire still dominating the skyline today. Its canals with wharf cellars, unique in the world, became vital arteries for trade and daily life. 

But Utrecht’s story is not only about prosperity and faith. It also carries memories of sieges, religious conflict, and resilience. During the Second World War, the city saw the courage of the Dutch Resistance, while its historic streets and courtyards witnessed the struggles of everyday life under occupation.

At the same time, Utrecht has always been a city of ideas and innovation. It was the stage for the Union of Utrecht in 1579, a founding moment in Dutch history, and today it remains a hub of education, science, and creativity. Its past and present flow together in the canals, squares, and churches that shape the city’s identity.

With Roods, you go beyond the surface. You discover Utrecht’s hidden stories and explore the city in your own way, guided by the voices of its past.