Sightseeing in Kerkrade - what to see. Complete travel guide
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 from hand to hand repeatedly. The city was ruled for a long time by the duchy of Brabant, Spain, and later by the French. The Kingdom of the Netherlands finally determined its rights to Kerkrade in 1839.
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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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 … Open
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An iconic historical site is the “Rolduc Abbey”, which was founded in the early 12th century. The monastery remained active until the 18th century; by that time it had a vast adjoining territory. The abbey owned several nearby coal mines, on which 350 employees worked. Despite numerous changes in the fate of the abbey, a unique 12th-century church, which is a vivid example of Masonic architecture, has survived on its territory. Currently, the historical building houses the catholic seminary, the building of the theological institute, as well as a conference hall.
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 … Open
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At a short distance from the city center on Sint Hubertuslaan Street, there is a beautiful botanical garden, which was founded in 1938. Currently it occupies an area of about one and a half hectares. In this garden are represented plants of almost 200 different families. The exotic plants that were brought from distant Madagascar are especially valuable. A special greenhouse was planted in the garden for them.
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 … Open
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In the city, there is a very beautiful concert hall “Rodahal”, which was built in 1993 specifically for the opening of the next music festival. Nowadays, interesting cultural events are regularly held in this concert hall.
One of the favorite recreation spots among visitors to Kerkrade is GaiaZOO located in the picturesque surroundings of the city. This is one of the most beautiful zoos in the Netherlands, … Open
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This guide to iconic landmarks and sights of Kerkrade is protected by the copyright law. You can re-publish this content with mandatory attribution: direct and active hyperlink to www.orangesmile.com.
City tours, excursions and tickets in Kerkrade and surroundings
Reference information
Map of all castles
Survived castles around Kerkrade
♥ Castle 'Landsfort Heerlen' , 6.5 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'Castle Blomendal' , 11.1 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'Hoensbroek Castle' , 11.8 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'Valkenburg castle' , 16.6 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'Jansgeleen Castle' , 18.1 km from the center. On the map
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Map of all parks
National and city parks around Kerkrade
♥ National Park 'De Meinweg' , 32.2 km from the center. On the map
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♥ National Park 'De Groote Peel' , 54.3 km from the center. On the map
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♥ National Park 'De Maasduinen' , 79.7 km from the center. On the map
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♥ National Park 'Eifel' , 108 km from the center. On the map
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♥ National Park 'De Loonse en Drunense Duinen' , 109.1 km from the center. On the map
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Sights around Kerkrade from our guide 'Extreme places on Earth'
Kolner Rathaus
From the series “Famous Buildings of Renaissance Architecture”
Check on the map: Distance from Kerkrade center - 63.1 km.
During the reconstruction of the basement there were found ruins of the ancient Roman buildings. Today all rebuilt elements of the historical buildings are open for everyone. Another peculiarity of the Kolner Rathaus is the musical instrument that makes wonderful melodies with the toll. It has appeared in the town hall in 1958. This construction has 45 bronze bells. A lot of people come to listen to the sound of them. …
Read further Distance from Kerkrade center - 63.1 km.
Kolner Dom
From the series “The Most Iconic Temples in the World”
Check on the map: Distance from Kerkrade center - 63 km.
The well-known architect Gerhard has worked at the Domprojekt. As the legend tells, the devil helped him. This was the only way to explain the construction of such a grand architectural project. Every day, more than 20,000 people visit the Cologne Cathedral, which is to be graced by its magnificent interiors and the golden sarcophagus with its main sanctuary. The latter is a real masterpiece of jeweler art. For the decoration of the sarcophagus thousands of precious stones were used. In the cathedral there are also other sanctuaries - the Gerokreuz and the Milan Madonna, a unique statue from the 13th century. All those who are interested can climb up the Domgipfel and enjoy the panorama of Cologne, for which only 509 steps have to be overcome. …
Read further Distance from Kerkrade center - 63 km.
Dom Cologne Cathedral
From the series “Gothic Architecture – Magnificent Monuments”
Check on the map: Distance from Kerkrade center - 62.9 km.
A beautiful sculpture of the Milan Madonna is located in the cathedral. It is also considered an outstanding sculptural creation in the Gothic style. Many beautiful legends are associated with Cologne Cathedral. According to one of them, the devil helped the architect Gerhard make drawings of the unique facade. The architect's wife managed to outwit the devil and save her husband's soul from a terrible fate. Another legend says that the devil was so angry at the deception that he predicted the end of the world on the day when the cathedral will be completed. Perhaps this is why one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world was never completed. …
Read further Distance from Kerkrade center - 62.9 km.
Search touristic sites on the map of Kerkrade
All about Kerkrade, Netherlands - sightseeings, attractions, touristic spots, architecture, history, culture and cuisine. Prepare your trip together with OrangeSmile.com - find out the 'must see' things in Kerkrade, which places to visit, which excursions to take, where the breathtaking views are waiting for you. Planning your trip with this travel guide will help your to get the most out of Kerkrade in few days.
