City and region - Bergen op Zoom
Bergen op Zoom stands for cultural events, stylish shopping and good cooking in a historical setting. The ancient marquess’ town of Bergen op Zoom is situated in the centre of the Brabant Ridge. It is not exactly clear when Bergen op Zoom came into existence, but at the end of the 12th century the town was granted privileges. Bergen op Zoom’s history is a succession of great economic prosperity, less prosperous times and many, many sieges. Over 800 (listed) heritage buildings, which are still standing despite the city’s eventful past, recount the story of a rich and stirring past. You can shop for hours on end in a great variety of shops in the dense city centre with its medieval alleys and squares. Both during and after your shopping spree, but also if you explore the inner city by means of a historical city walk, you can visit one of the many outdoor cafes in the city. In Bergen op Zoom’s natural surroundings you can enjoy many kilometres of biking- and hiking trails. The perfect end to a visit to Bergen op Zoom is when you pull up a chair in one of the local restaurants.
Bergen op Zoom’s rich past is clearly visible in its many beautifully restored buildings. The dense city centre is packed with over 800 heritage sites and over 200 of these are listed buildings. The most ancient heritage building is the Lievevrouwepoort (Our Lady’s Gate), also known as the Gevangenpoort (Prisoner’s Gate). The building once belonged to the city walls and later served as a prison. You will find many more splendid buildings around the Grote Markt (Market Square), such as Sint Gertrudiskerk (Saint-Gertrude’s Church), city theatre De Maagd (The Virgin) and a monumental city hall. The city’s most remarkable heritage site is the Markiezenhof (Marquess’ Court). This former residential palace of the Lords and Marquesses of Bergen op Zoom is now a museum. When it still housed Bergen op Zoom’s Marquesses the building underwent many alterations, during which the picturesque inner squares were created.
