Day 17 Groningen

 40 miles to Groningen

Today I cycled to Emden to catch the ferry to Delfzijl, Netherlands.  The focus of this trip has been The Netherlands.  First to see a friend that I cycled with along the Danube a few years ago.  And second because I want to see this bicycle crazy culture.

The day started out overcast and misty, but mild in temperature.

This is the boat that took me to The Netherlands.

Goodbye Germany.

Beautiful bike lanes, protected from traffic.

If you look you can see the bike lanes, on the right, are about as big as the two lanes for car traffic, on the left.  The bike lanes also had their own barrier bars to prevent you from crossing when a train is coming.

Flag of The Netherlands.  And, yes, the wind was blowing pretty strong.

Now in Groningen

Bikes parked everywhere.

This is Martinikerk.  Named for St. Martin of Tours.  The church is now used for conferences and other events - which I was about to find out.  The church is 13th century and the organ dates to 1450.  Much of the art on the walls and the ceiling have been preserved - much of it from the 16th century.

With that history I was surprised to go inside and find hundreds of people involved in a gaming competition!!!

Beautiful preserved artwork.

This is the entrance to the University of Groningen.  One of the most historic and prestigious universities in the country.  Has about 30,000 students.  Tuition for EU students - 2060 Euros - A YEAR!!!!!