Regional Information

Bergen op Zoom is a typical Brabant town. Narrow streets, ancient squares and unusual listed buildings tell the story of a rich and eventful life.

Due to its location alongside the river Scheldt, Bergen op Zoom became a prosperous trade centre in the dark ages and was visited twice a year during the Eastern market and the Cold market by merchants from all over Europe. The favourable trade was the main reason for the construction of Het Markiezenhof and for the expansion of the Sint Gertrudis Church. In 1567 the city changed drastically as a result of the immense military installations and sieges. The defensive works then built survived the 80-year war against the Spanish. The Bergen’s hymn ‘Merck toch hoe sterck’ recalls those difficult times. The port was an important artery through which troops and supplies were brought into the city. In 1698 a thorough renovation of the defensive works was begun, following a design of the famous Dutch fortress builder Menno van Coehoorn. Since his work was considered invincible, Bergen op Zoom was given the nickname ‘la Puelle’, the Virgin.

As the city expanded at the end of the 19th century most of the defensive works were demolished. Around the port large industries were established but the ancient city centre kept its historical character. The monumental buildings in the centre form a unique setting for interesting little shops, pubs and convivial restaurants.