Editing Lochem (section)

== History ==
Lochem received city rights in 1233 from Count Otto II of Guelders. It was a fortified town that was often besieged and burned down by various enemies, such as the Bishop of Utrecht, the Duke of Burgundy, and the Spanish troops.

Lochem played a role in the Eighty Years’ War, resisting several attempts by the Spanish to capture it. In 1590, a local hero named Jan de Poorter foiled a plot by the Spanish to enter the city disguised as hay wagons. After 1700, Lochem became a small market town for the farmers in its surroundings. It also developed some industries, such as leather, tobacco, and paper. Lochem was occupied by the French from 1795 to 1813, and suffered from plundering and requisitions. In 1818, Lochem became part of the newly formed province of Gelderland.

In 1763, Lochem experienced the "Night of Fire" on Christmas. A group of young Germans ignited the church and numerous significant buildings.

Lochem boasts various historical landmarks, including the St. Gudula Church, originating from the 11th century and housing a renowned organ from 1834. The town features a museum, a theater, and a music venue. Laren, a village within the Lochem municipality, is home to Huis Verwolde Castle, erected in 1776 and available for public viewing. Lochem is nestled amidst stunning natural landscapes of forests, hills, and open fields, making it a sought-after spot for activities like hiking, cycling, and golfing.

In February 2024, the [[2024 Lochem bridge collapse|Lochem bridge collapsed]], with deaths and injuries resulting.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://apnews.com/article/netherlands-bridge-collapse-deaths-176e3544e77a9da31605de834ee3d653|title=2 workers die after part of a bridge being built over a Dutch canal collapses|date=February 21, 2024|website=AP News}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dw.com/en/netherlands-bridge-collapse-leaves-2-dead/a-68327070|title=Netherlands bridge collapse leaves 2 dead – DW – 02/21/2024|website=dw.com}}</ref>