Arnhem, a romantic city?

Romanticized Image of Arnhem

The city of Arnhem is unique due to its location near nature, characterized by hills, forests, and rivers. In the nineteenth century, this was used to create a romanticized image of the city. Artists from the Oosterbeek School captured a fairy-tale-like Arnhem, and the tourist office (VVV) promoted it as "Netherlands' air and walking spa resort Arnhem." Meanwhile, estate owners added paths, ponds, and bridges to their gardens to align with the English ideal of the time.

Hidden Poverty

But behind this splendor lay poverty. The working class lived in poor conditions in separate neighborhoods, carefully hidden from the wealthy residents of Arnhem and the tourists who were meant to bring money to the city.

Arnhem, a Romantic City?

Through photos, postcards, paintings, objects, books, and archaeological finds, you will discover both sides of Arnhem. And the question is posed to you: Arnhem, a romantic city?

Visitor Information

This exhibition can be visited at the Heritage Center in Rozet (Kortestraat 16, Arnhem), just a 10-minute walk from Museum Arnhem.