Dordrecht, Netherlands – Dorothy Wordsworth, the English poet and writer, documented her travels through the Netherlands in May 1823, expressing particular delight in the city of Dordrecht. Her writings detailed visits to prominent churches and appreciation for the city’s unique landscape of waterways.

Wordsworth’s journey brought her to Dordrecht after departing from Antwerp by mail coach and crossing the Bies Bosch by steamboat. She arrived in the city at half-past five in the morning, immediately noting that she was now in “the land of many waters.”

During her two-day stay, Wordsworth visited the cathedral, where she admired paintings by Rubens. She was especially moved by the organ performance, which filled the building with sound.

Another church that captivated her was the Sint-Jacobskerk, which houses the family tomb of Rubens. Wordsworth noted a painting by the master himself within the church.

Wordsworth also climbed the tower dated 1626, which provided her with a panoramic view of the city, including the town hall, stock exchange, winding streets, trees, and rivers. She observed that the footpaths, lined with trees, had a cool and inviting appearance.

The poet was particularly fascinated by the city’s network of waterways. She noted that the eye could follow the course of five waterways, each taking a different path into the countryside from various points around the city.