The history of Hotel Halbert

back in time

The story of Tjalling Joostes Halbertsma

As soon as you enter Oude Boteringestraat in Groningen, you'll experience the city's rich history. Here you'll admire the oldest and best-preserved parts of the historic city. This street tells stories from the past, including the story of Professor Tjalling Joostes Halbertsma.

It was Professor Halbertsma who fell in love with a characteristic building whose facade is decorated with wooden spandrels and floral motifs. A facade that changes color with each season, making the street seem constantly in motion.

It's no wonder, then, that Tjalling Halbertsma chose this very building to raise his family. Here, his adventures would leave an indelible impression that is still palpable today.

As professor of Greek Language and Literature, Greek Antiquity, and Art History at the University of Groningen, he provided his students with fresh insights. He was beloved for his jovial, open, and hospitable demeanor and won many hearts.

This was also the case on Oude Boteringestraat, where he brightened the streetscape with his characteristic rosy glow. Often walking home from work, he was touched by the nature that surprised him every day. He made various connections, loved to travel, enjoyed himself, and loved sharing this with family and friends. Everyone would describe Halbertsma as a hospitable man. A true family man. Because even though he loved exploring different cultures and savored the abundance of inspiration he found to face life, he always returned to his city, with its beautiful streets and nature, and his beloved family home on Oude Boteringestraat.

In 1900, the Halbertsma family home underwent a major renovation, and it was none other than Halbertsma's grandson who laid the foundation stone. This is where the first connection between old and new was made. Here, the building as we know it today was created. Where the old, raw section of the building remains intact and flows into a bright, new section. Yes, you can still experience the legacy of the family, whom we respect. It was Tjalling Halbertsma who left an unparalleled impression on the city, a legacy we can still feel today. He introduced Groningen to art and culture, adding color to the city. With his personality, his love for Groningen and its urban landscape, and our vision, we allow city by nature to flourish. Because only then can you experience the city at its best.

The story of Professor Tjalling Joostes Halbertsma continues as you walk through the building and discover its various well-preserved spaces. As you take a seat in the café, the hospitality we know and love from Halbertsma is still evident. His open, hospitable, and jovial character made him a pleasure to spend time with. And because of his blond curls and rosy cheeks, he was also known as "rosy Tjall." It's no wonder, then, that Café Tjall is the perfect place to enjoy company and your favorite drink in the evening.

Just like Professor Tjalling Halbertsma, take a stroll down Oude Boteringestraat and look up at the facade. See a city that has changed over the centuries but essentially remained the same. Where you can enjoy culture, art, and socializing with a blush on your cheeks. Whether with family, colleagues, or friends. This is your meeting place. Your inspiration and breathing space in your busy life.