Oudewater is a small town about 11km outside of Gouda. During the witch hunts of the 16th century the Emperor Charles V granted the town weigh-master of Oudewater the right to issue certificates that stated that “the accused’s weight is in accordance with the natural proportions of the body”. Bearers of such a certificated were not allowed to be brought on trial for witchcraft again. The weigh house is still standing today and is a popular attraction.
