Roman Period: Relics of the City's Origin

The story of DOMunder begins around 45 AD, when the Romans built a fortress called "Traiectum" on the land of today's Utrecht, which became the origin of the city's development. Walking into DOMunder, you can see the remains of ancient Roman roads. Although those stone-paved roads have been eroded by time, they still silently tell the prosperity and power of the Roman Empire at that time. ​

Following the tour route, you can also find silver coins left by the ancient Romans 3.8 meters (about 12 feet) underground. Interestingly, some of the silver coins were counterfeited by the Frisians. The Frisians lived in the northern part of the Netherlands, which was not part of the Roman Empire at the time. They counterfeited silver coins to try to gain benefits in trade with the Romans. This small detail adds a different color to this period of history. In a specific area of ​​DOMunder, with the help of advanced multimedia displays, visitors can see the lively scenes of Roman soldiers patrolling in the fortress and merchants running back and forth on the road, and truly feel the important position of Utrecht as a transportation hub and trade node in the Roman period.

The Middle Ages: The Interweaving of Religion and Urban Development

With the departure of the Romans, Utrecht gradually entered the Middle Ages. During this period, religion played an extremely important role in the development of the city. The Dom Church was built in 1284 and completed in 1520 after more than 200 years. It was once the largest church in the Netherlands and a symbol of Utrecht's religious power and urban prosperity. However, a devastating tornado in 1674 ruthlessly destroyed the nave of the Dom Church, leaving only half of the building debris. Fortunately, the Dom Tower stood firm in the storm. It is still the tallest church tower in the Netherlands, witnessing the changes of Utrecht through wind and rain. ​

At DOMunder, visitors can intuitively understand the construction process of the Dom Church and the terrible scene of the disaster through carefully produced animated films. In the film, the wind is howling and the bricks and stones of the church are falling, making people feel as if they are there. In addition, through the display of medieval architectural relics and the introduction of relevant historical materials, visitors can gain an in-depth understanding of Utrecht's brilliant achievements in architecture, art, culture, etc. as a religious center at that time. For example, the exquisite stonework skills of Utrecht's craftsmen in the Middle Ages can be seen from the remaining architectural components. Those exquisite carvings show people's piety to religion and their persistent pursuit of art at that time.

Unique tour experience: the fusion of technology and history

DOMunder offers visitors an unprecedented tour experience that perfectly blends modern technology with ancient history. Upon entering the underground space, visitors are given a special flashlight, which is based on infrared and 3D technology, like a key to open the door to history. When you use the flashlight to illuminate the walls, the ground and various archaeological discoveries, hidden stories and animations will be activated. ​

During the tour, you will seem to have transformed into an archaeologist, following a set route to explore the truth of history in this ancient underground world. For example, when the flashlight shines on an ancient stone tablet, the image of the carver will emerge on the surface of the stone tablet, and the meaning of the text on the stone tablet will be displayed with vivid animation. In addition, DOMunder also provides audio guides to detail the historical background and cultural significance behind each relic. For those who are eager to learn more about Utrecht's history, there is an archaeological tour led by an expert guide every Saturday at 10:30 am, where visitors can explore the mysteries of DOMunder more comprehensively and in depth with the guidance of professionals.

Visit information: Start a historical exploration journey

DOMunder is open all year round, from Monday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00. The ticket price is 10 euros per person, which is definitely worth it for visitors who want to learn more about Utrecht's 2,000 years of history. The entrance to the museum is located in the center of Dom Square, at Domplein 4, 3512 JC Utrecht. For more information, you can visit the official website domunder.nl.

Visiting DOMunder is not only an experience of visiting a museum, but also an adventure through time and space. Here, you can touch the pulse of history, feel the precipitation of years, and witness how Utrecht has developed from a Roman fortress to an important cultural and historical city in the Netherlands. When you walk out of DOMunder and stand on Dom Square again, looking at the bustling crowds and ancient buildings around you, you will definitely have a new understanding and understanding of the history of this city.