Middelburg

During the Dutch Era, Middelburg was the most important city in the Netherlands after Amsterdam. And you can see this glorious past reflected in each step you take here. Old warehouses, stately mansions, narrow alleys and historical squares still exude the atmosphere of days gone by. The many distinctive monuments are unmissable sights during your visit to Middelburg. The Market Square, for example, is home to perhaps the city's most photographed building: het Stadhuis (Town Hall). Or how about Middelburg Abbey, with its many towers, serene cloisters and a monastery garden, which is also a frequent backdrop for festivals and events? In short, Middelburg is a city full of sights.

The great thing about Middelburg is that in addition to the city centre and the many activities that take place there, you’re always within easy reach of the natural beauty of the countryside. It takes no time at all to leave the historical city centre and walk, relax and explore in the lush green surroundings, where children can play. You can find remnants of the city's history here too. From the Bolwerken (ramparts) around Middelburg's canals to Toorenvliedt park with its various World War II bunkers. Another special place to visit is the Ter Hooge estate with its impressive castle.

Middelburg is conveniently located close to the largest national park in the Netherlands: Oosterschelde National Park. The unique combination of fresh and salt water and the constantly changing landscape offers a warm welcome for thousands of birds, aquatic animals and plants. That’s why Oosterschelde National Park is part of the Natura 2000 areas, a network of important protected natural areas throughout Europe. There is a lot to do in this national park – from impressive walking routes to bird watching and seal safaris.

Middelburg is full of hidden places that you’ll only notice once they’ve been pointed out to you. And they all have their own story. Take the Fluisterpoort (Whisper Gate), for example. During the Dutch East India era, boys and girls were not allowed to talk to each other. They used the Fluisterpoort at the Abbey to get around that rule. Facing the wall, the acoustics of the archway allowed them to communicate through whispers. This historical phenomenon gives a rare glimpse into the social customs of the time.

Walk past the stately buildings in Middelburg and you’ll notice historical house names on the door lintels. These names date from a time when house numbers did not exist and tell stories of past residents and their lives. House names like 'De Vergulde Schoe' (The Guilded Shoe) or 't Gouden Hengsel' (The Golden Handel) each have their own history. They were decorative and helped with directions before house numbers existed. So be sure to look up from time to time during your visit, to discover these names for yourself and wonder about the hidden history they reveal.