Look for a sturdy old building with red bricks, tall narrow windows, and dark wooden shutters, set right next to the little square-you can’t miss its medieval look under the leafy trees.
Alright, imagine yourself standing here in Zwolle nearly 600 years ago, but watch out-you’re by the Pestengasthuis, the “Plague Guesthouse!” Back in the 1450s, this building stood on the edge of the city, outside the medieval city wall, well away from healthy citizens. If you were unfortunate enough to catch the plague, this was the place you’d end up. The old brick walls around you must have heard plenty of coughs and creaks at night. But the city didn’t stop growing and soon, the wall moved, bringing the Pestengasthuis inside the city-a bit like a surprise houseguest you can’t get rid of!
When the plague finally packed its bags and left town (thankfully!), the building took up a new job-first as a hospital for soldiers, and later as a meeting spot for the local weavers’ guild. In fact, the square right outside is still called Weversgildeplein, a reminder of all those busy hands and noisy looms! Over the years, the hospital became many things, but today it welcomes you as a restaurant. So, if you hear mysterious footsteps or the playful ghost of a weaver, just blame it on the centuries-old brickwork… or maybe the lunch menu!
