Happy TravellerWelcome to Oosterhout, a charming city located in the southern Netherlands. With a population of over 56,000 people, Oosterhout is a bustling municipality that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, admiring stunning architecture, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding area, Oosterhout has something for everyone.
History:
Oosterhout has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. The Knights Templar had a temple here dedicated to St. John the Baptist, and the city was home to a castle that controlled the surrounding area up to Breda and Bergen op Zoom. Unfortunately, the castle was destroyed by Spanish troops during the Eighty Years War, but a tower of it still stands today. Oosterhout became the seat of a flourishing ceramics industry, which lasted until the 19th century. Despite the rise of Protestantism, it was home to several Catholic monasteries, including that of the Premonstratensians, which is still active. Oosterhout received city rights in 1809, by will of Louis Bonaparte.
Main Sights:
One of the most popular attractions in Oosterhout is the Slotjes Castle, which was once home to the Lords of Breda. Visitors can explore the castle’s beautiful gardens and learn about its fascinating history. Another must-see attraction is the unfinished basilica of St. John. A Romanesque church existed in 1277, but from around 1473 it was rebuilt in the current Gothic style, being finished in 1493. The tower was constructed from 1519 to 1552. It was restored several times in the following centuries. Monastery of St. Catherine, once a castle held by the Knights Hospitaller. Slotbossetoren, destroyed castle.
Culture:
Oosterhout is a city that values its culture and heritage. One of the most interesting cultural attractions in the city is De anoniemen, a group of statues created by Paul Elshout that is situated in Slotpark. Visitors can admire these unique sculptures and learn about their significance to the local community.
Sport:
Oosterhout is home to several sports clubs, including volleyball club VOKO, football clubs SCO-Tofs, VV Oosterhout, baseball club Twins, and hockey club De Warande. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or simply looking for a fun way to stay active during your visit, Oosterhout has plenty of options to choose from.
Notable People:
Oosterhout has been home to many notable people throughout history, including Dutch botanist and physician Willem Hendrik de Vriese, Dutch scholar of Oriental cultures and Advisor to the colonial government of the Netherlands East Indies Christiaan Snouck Hurgronje, Belgian composer and pianist of Dutch origin Marinus De Jong, Dutch politician Gerrit Brokx, Dutch clergyman and bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Breda Johannes Wilhelmus Maria Liesen, Dutch author of children’s literature Mirjam Mous, Dutch fashion designer Marlies Dekkers, Dutch rapper Peter Kops (known as Extince), Dutch mathematician and academic Sander P. Zwegers, Dutch footballer Kees Pijl, Dutch football player and coach Wanny van Gils, Dutch table tennis player Kelly van Zon, Dutch professional bodybuilder Wesley Vissers, and Dutch footballer Jennifer Vreugdenhil.
Gallery:
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Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich history, admiring its stunning architecture, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding area, Oosterhout is a destination that should not be missed. So why not plan your visit today and discover all that this charming city has to offer?
