Here's a last minute Halloween-inspired trip for you! Head to the picturesque village of Oudewater this weekend, located in the Utrecht province, and see an original witches weigh house, the Heksenwaag. This weekend is the last time that the museum is open until next year as it closes for the winter season.

The Weigh House, built in 1595, was an official location where women (and men) would be weighed to see if they were a witch. Fortunately, and perhaps surprisingly, no one weighed there was ever convicted of being a witch. It was one of the only places in Europe where the accused could go to be sure of receiving a fair weighing. The museum still has the scales that were used and you can even be weighed yourself and receive a document stating that you are not, indeed, a witch. Along with the scales, there are also audiovisual presentations and various exhibitions regarding the history of witch persecutions.

Oudewater, as seen in the picture here, is itself a stunning little town with many of the buildings a part of the historic register. It's definitely worth a visit to admire the old buildings and the beautiful canals and churches and scenery, along with some great cafés and restaurants. The town hall even has storks that roost there.

The Heksenwaag is located at Leeuweringerstraat 2, Oudewater, Utrecht 3420 DB. The museum is open this weekend (October 31-November 1) from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and entrance is €4.25. You can take bus 180 from Utrecht's Centraal Station to Oudewater.

Photo credit: FaceMePLS