"Blokhuispoort"

The Bijzondere Strafgevangenis (Special Prison) of Leeuwarden, located at Blokhuisplein, was in the last century the largest and most secure prison in the Netherlands. Long and heavily sentenced prisoners were placed here. The prison was designed to be self-sufficient, with workrooms provided to produce goods for clients. In-house services were required to meet the needs of the residents and maintain the building.

Each newly arrived inmate, after being presented to the prison board, had the opportunity to tell the director which type of work they wished to undertake. They could choose from carpentry, blacksmithing, furniture making, tailoring, weaving, typesetting and printing, painting, bookbinding, basket weaving, shoe making, and saddle making. The main clients for the prison labor were government services and the Dutch postal service (PTT).

Now better known as the Blokhuispoort, it has since 2017 transformed into a cultural business center located in the vibrant heart of Leeuwarden. Former prisoners have made way for new residents—entrepreneurs who run their businesses here. Around 100 inspiring individuals work separately, yet often collaborate and develop together. They create beautiful products and provide unique services.

In 2014, BOEI became the new owner, with plans to transform the Blokhuispoort into the lively center of Leeuwarden while preserving its historic glory in a modern setting. Since 2017, the site has undergone extensive renovations to bring the Blokhuispoort into a new era.