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Kerkrade

Culture of Kerkrade. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

The main historical symbol of Kerkrade is the wonderful Oud-Ehrenstein Castle. It was built in the 13th century on the banks of the Amstel River as a watchtower to protect an important trade route. The castle got its current name in honor of the Saxon knights who owned it in the 14th century. Hundreds of years ago, several important trade routes that connected neighboring cities intersected on the site where the present-day castle stands. The town itself was an important trading center and its castle still reminds us of its great trading past. The old castle has been preserved to this day only partially - in the 19th century it was badly damaged by fire.

Guide to Kerkrade sightseeing - things to see and to visit

For most of its history, modern Kerkrade was part of the historic city of Herzogenrath. South Limburg was a constantly disputed territory between different duchies, and Herzogenrath passed …

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The fire destroyed almost half of the building, and it was not possible to restore the burned part of the castle. Today, Oud-Ehrenstein is located in a picturesque park, which is a popular recreation area among local residents. Nearby is one of the most beautiful canals in Kerkrade, which is fed by the Amstel River. After the last reconstruction, a small hotel was opened in the castle. On its ground floor, there is a prestigious French restaurant.

An equally remarkable historical landmark is old Rolduc Abbey dating back over 900 years. Despite its impressive age, the largest abbey in the Netherlands has managed to preserve many of its original elements. Today, the historic building also houses a hotel, and its other part has been converted into a modern conference center. During regular tours, tourists can visit an ancient temple and a crypt located on the territory of the abbey. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Family holidays with kids in Kerkrade. How to entertain your child, things to show to children.

In miniature Kerkrade, there are many attractions and entertainment centers that will be fascinating to visit with children. With the kids it is worth taking a walk around the GaiaZOO. This …

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In the vicinity of the city is the beautiful castle Erenstein, which is a vivid example of medieval architecture. Built in the 14th century, it has miraculously escaped major damages over the years. After a thorough reconstruction, the castle became accessible for tours so now everyone can walk along its long corridors and climb watchtowers, which serve as observation platforms. The medieval castle is located in a very beautiful natural area near the lake Cranenweyer. In the warm months, fascinating hiking tours are organized in these places.

For fans of historical sites, it will be interesting to explore the outskirts of Kerkrade where several ancient castles and buildings of medieval times have been preserved. One of the most beautiful is Castle Striyfagen - an old private estate, which has managed to fully preserve its original form. This castle is a large architectural complex. Besides the manor itself, almost all the additional buildings have been preserved.

Cuisine of Kerkrade for gourmet with top restaurants and cafe

The traditional cuisine of Kerkrade is very simple and devoid of rare delicacies. The local gastronomy is based on fish and other types of seafood, meat, potatoes, dairy products, and …

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The complex includes a steward's house, an old water mill and other structures dating back to the 18th century. The brick in two different colors was used in the castle's construction, which makes the appearance of the historical monument even more original. The historical monument stands on the shore of a large reservoir near extensive forests and interesting natural attractions.

Kasteel Erenstein tijdens het blauw uurtje aan het begin van de nacht.

Ottenfeld Castle, another picturesque historic manor, is located five kilometers from the city. Over hundreds of years, it has been repeatedly rebuilt and reconstructed. Today, this architectural monument is an amazing combination of different styles. The exact date of construction of the very first estate in this place is unknown. However, a large Romanesque-style fortress was located on its site in the 14th century. A significant part of the complex buildings that we can see today was erected at the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries. Currently, Ottenfeld is in private ownership so tours are not available to the public. Tourists will have the opportunity to stroll through the territory of the old castle and appreciate its beauty from the nearby viewing platforms.

Authentic traditions, festivals and lifestyle of Kerkrade inhabitants

Locals are known for their love for their hometown and historical traditions; they are very hardworking, caring about cleanliness and environment. Just take a walk along the city streets to …

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One of the oldest historical monuments in the region is Rimburg Castle located near the eponymous town. The very first fortress was built on its site in the 12th century but over the years it has been heavily destroyed several times. The last time the castle was completely restored at the end of the 19th century, it is now surrounded by a wide moat filled with water. Near the castle, one can find many beautiful places for walking. Here you can admire old watermills located on the banks of a canal and relax in picturesque forests. Most tourists visit these places in the warm season, however, tours of the castle are also available in wintertime.

In the section below, you can get one of our excursion, activities or city discovery tours over Kerkrade and surroundings. Our website offers 10-30% lower ticket prices, when compared to the offline purchase on the spot.

City tours, excursions and tickets in Kerkrade and surroundings

This guide to cultural sights Kerkrade is protected by the copyright law. You can re-publish this content with mandatory attribution: direct and active hyperlink to www.orangesmile.com.

Kerkrade - guide chapters 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Reference information

Map of all churches

Cathedrals and basilicas near Kerkrade
♥ Basiliek van het Heilig Sacrament, Meerssen, 21.9 km from the center. On the map Show on the map

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♥ Basiliek van Onze Lieve Vrouw ten Hemelopneming, Maastricht, 26.3 km from the center. On the map Show on the map

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♥ Basilique abbatiale de Notre-Dame du Val-Dieu, Aubel, 26.3 km from the center. On the map Show on the map

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♥ Basiliek van de H. Amelberga, Susteren, 26.4 km from the center. On the map Show on the map

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♥ Basiliek van de H. Servatius, Maastricht, 26.7 km from the center. On the map Show on the map

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♥ Basiliek van de H.H. Wiro, Plechelmus en Otgerus, Sint-Odiliënberg, 31.7 km from the center. On the map Show on the map

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♥ Sint Christoffelkathedraal, Roermond, 37.1 km from the center. On the map Show on the map

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Culture of Kerkrade. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

City tours, excursions and tickets in Kerkrade and surroundings

Photogallery of cultural heritage of Kerkrade

Landmarks of culture on Kerkrade map: art-galleries, monuments, palaces, etc

Excursions over cultural sights of neighbours of Kerkrade