Amersfoort

Located on a fording place of the Eem (formerly Amer) river. Mentioned as a settlement in 1028 and was granted a charter in 1259. Site was fortified in 12th century and much of the medieval town survives, including street pattern, churches and towers, some of the walls and the Kopelpoort, a 14th century water gate. Birthplace of artist Piet Mondrian (1872-1944).