Sightseeing in Tilburg - what to see. Complete travel guide

The city is located in the south, near the North Brabant province. The first mention of Tilburg refers to 709. At that time this was a small agricultural settlement, the development of which started after the building of defensive towers in the 15th century. The city was protected by a strong stone wall, so here started appearing first large-scale buildings and structures. In 1809 Tilburg got the status of a town. A hundred years later the first factory, which produced high-end yarn, was opened on its territory. In the end of the 19th century more than a hundred of such plants were operating in the city. Steadily Tilburg became famous as "wool province".

Today this city is a major scientific and educational area. The International University of Tilburg is widely known outside the country. Here study not only locals, but also students from various countries. Due to large number of young people numerous nightclubs, restaurants and pubs have quickly appeared in Tilburg. Here are opened several large sports complexes, tennis courts and fields for playing golf. The majority of the territory of the city is allowed for pedestrians and cyclists only. The cozy streets and spacious parks of this place are ideal for walks.

Old Cavalry Barracks are considered one of the main attractions of this place. The barracks were built in the middle of the 19th century. Another magnificent palace is located just nearby. Nowadays here works the local municipality. Don’t forget to visit Museum of Textile, Brabant Museum of Nature, and Museum of Modern Art. During a year several major events take place in Tilburg. These are Festival of Chess, Mundial Music Festival, ZXZW festival of independent culture, and a famous fair that lasts 10 days. This city will surely impress its guests. The rest here is fascinating and really diversified. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

A wonderful amusement park Efteling operates in the city. Since its opening in 1952, it is considered a real historical landmark. Today, the amusement park is one of the most popular and visited in Europe. It gets more than four million visitors each year. The vast area of 650000 sq. m. is divided into several thematic zones. You'll find unique rides with the famous characters of old European fairy tales. There are extreme rides, as well. During the warm season, they hold recreational activities for visitors.

Tilburg can boast a beautiful zoo whose main visitors are tourists and locals with children. The zoo was founded in 1932. The history of its appearance is linked to the name of the famous Dutch scientist Johan Burgers. He presented his daughter and her spouse with a wedding gift. However, the new owners did not enjoy it for long. In 1946, they sold the zoo the Van Dyke family, that significantly expanded its territory and brought new animals. Nowadays, visitors can see dozens of species of animals from different parts of the world.

Among the historical buildings preserved in the city, the ancient Hasselt Chapel particularly stands out. It is quite small, made of red brick, and has beautiful design inside. Its main value is an elegant statue of the Virgin Mary. The chapel borders with a picturesque park. Every year in May, a traditional market opens nearby.

Heikese Kerk is an architectural monument of more impressive size. It managed to preserve its original appearance. The high tower of the church provides excellent guidance for tourists. Exquisite rosettes windows, sculptures depicting saints, and antique furniture are of great historical value. Not so long ago, the church was completely refurbished. Workers managed to restore many of its original design elements.