In the south-western Netherlands, there is an interesting place that is worth visiting – the artificial Walcheren peninsula. The city of Middelburg is a notable attraction of this part of the country. Numerous tourist groups visit this settlement to see gorgeous religious landmarks and charming houses that form whole quarters of the authentic-looking buildings. Most of these dwellings are notable examples of the architectural styles of the 17th-18th centuries, and this fact makes it even more interesting for tourists and foreign travelers to visit Middelburg. Are you dreaming of a peaceful holiday in the Netherlands? Middelburg is the capital of the Zeeland province but, nevertheless, this is an incredibly tranquil and cozy city.
There was a fortress on the site of the modern Dutch city in the eighth – ninth centuries. This stronghold, the main purpose of which was to protect the region from the Viking invasions, became the heart of a small settlement. The first Catholic monastery appeared in 844 AD. The settlement was developing and its territory was growing, but the authorities didn’t hurry to recognize it. Middelburg officially got the town status only in 1217. Soon after that, the settlement turned into one of the major centers of trade between Great Britain and the Netherlands. Moreover, the relations with numerous Flemish cities were also getting stronger.
When planning a vacation in Middelburg, don’t expect to find a rich cultural heritage. Basically, interesting buildings and the ever-pleasant atmosphere are the biggest advantages and drawing points of this Dutch city. The historic part of Middelburg is particularly interesting for tourists. It is not hard to find the old city center as an old moat surrounds it. It is important to mention that it was decided to keep the moat even though it is useless nowadays. When the city was rebuilt after World War II, the authorities saved it to maintain the original atmosphere of the old city center. To see unique historical dwellings, visit the following streets: Spaniaardstraat, Singelstraat, and the area near the abbey.
The Catholic monastery is a whole architectural complex consisting of several parts: the southern, northern, and north-eastern. The first part of the abbey is not hard to notice because it has a tall tower, the height of which is roughly ninety meters. Local people even gave a symbolic nickname to this attraction of Middelburg - Lange Jan or Tall John. Besides this notable landmark, tourists can see two interesting churches in this area, namely, Koorkerk and Nieuwe Kerk, which were built in the sixteenth century.
During a visit to the northern part of the abbey, you will find yourself in the interesting Zeeland Museum. The venue was renovated in 2007 and its collection got many new artifacts. Nowadays, this museum offers a large collection of Chinese porcelain, unique household items and decorations made of silver, and various paintings and tapestries by the great artists of Middelburg and the Netherlands in general. After the museum, it is time to explore the north-eastern part of the Catholic monastery. This is where tourists will find beautiful Oostkerk. This is a fine example of the Baroque style. The hexagonal cupola decorates the top of the building.
The city hall building is one more prominent attraction of Middelburg. Tourists will find it in the main square. The construction of the administrative building was finished in 1458. Nowadays, this is one of the signature landmarks of Middelburg. In the opinion of many, this is the most beautiful building in the whole city. Pay attention to the small statues in the city hall façade. These are the statues of the former rulers. Step into the building to see interesting and skillfully made Flemish decorative tapestries with different events of the past and interesting ornamental patterns.
Road E312 goes straight to Middelburg and connects this city to Eindhoven. There is also a daily train to the capital of the Zeeland province from Bergen op Zoom. The ride between the two cities lasts only half an hour. Moreover, there are regular trains to Middelburg from Rotterdam. The journey time is longer in this case – one and a half hours. When heading from Amsterdam, the ride will be one hour longer.
