Former House of Detention "De Blokhuispoort".
Special Detention Prison and House of Detention in Leeuwarden. The building complex is one of the most characteristic Dutch 19th century penitentiary institutions. The complex has great historical value (since 1580) and has Heritage Monument status. Notorious criminals have spent jail time in "De Blokhuispoort" like the brothers Hogerhuis, IJje Wijkstra for multiple manslaughter, poison murders by Dr O., the holdup at December 8, 1944 and safe buster Aage M.

The building was used as a House of Detention until July 19, 2007. At April 1st, 2008, the Justice Department gave notice and left the building empty. The Public Service for Buildings is now owner of the monumental building that is being managed by Bureau CareX . The former House of Detention “De Blokhuispoort” now has a temporary function as a cultural centre.

As a prison complex, "De Blokhuispoort" has been existing for hundreds of years already. The eldest central layer of the main building is being formed by the convict prison from 1661. This prison was built upon a former discipline fortified building. The Frisian people conquered the discipline fort from the Duke of Saksen and changed it into a prison. During World War II (1944), the prison became famous for a successful escape from this prison . This event was filmed later.