Museums and History
The province of Zeeland took its current shape in 1814. Of course, the history of the area is much older. But in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, which was established after Napoleon withdrew from the Netherlands in 1813, Zeeland acquired its present form. The territory of the province was expanded with what is now called Zeeuws-Vlaanderen.
History of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen
The history of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen is certainly fascinating. Characteristic of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen is the winding border with Flanders. This is a remnant of the fascinating history of our region, where the inhabitants of the border area have defended themselves against hostile attacks through the centuries. In addition, water plays an important role. The coastal nature reserves show how we have struggled with the water. Many places were once islands. Remnants of wars and floods can be found everywhere in the region. Every place has its own story.
You can discover the rich and diverse history of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen by visiting museums and historical sites. Here you will find an overview of great places to visit in our region!
Museums and Sights
The location by the water and the rich history provide a large number of interesting museums and sights. Each museum tells its own story. This way, you learn more about the history of the region. Want to know more about our history? Then we can recommend a few museums.
Museum het Bolwerk
Museum het Bolwerk in IJzendijke is the museum about the history of the Staats-Spaanse Linies. The museum tells how the residents of the border region defended themselves against hostile attacks over the centuries. The main focus of Museum het Bolwerk's collection is the Staats-Spaanse Linies, a unique complex of fortifications. These fortifications are unique because here, part of the origin story of the Netherlands can still be seen and experienced in the landscape.
Regional Museum in Hulst
Museum Hulst is a regional museum housed in the 's-Landshuis, a national monument from the 17th century. The museum provides an impression of the history of the fortified town of Hulst and its surroundings. A walk along the ramparts of Hulst is highly recommended.
Cultuurforum Aardenburg
Cultuurforum Aardenburg is the youngest museum in Zeeland. And it can be found in one of its oldest towns, namely Aardenburg. Here you can experience the Roman era in a surprising way. Two thousand years ago, a castellum actually stood here. Remains of this fort and many Roman artifacts can be found in the museum. Next to the museum stands the Sint Baafskerk, which is the oldest church in Zeeland.
Industrial History?
Are you interested in the history of industry in our region? Then we recommend a few museums.
Industrial Museum Sas van Gent
Industrial Museum in Sas van Gent is housed in a former sugar warehouse. In this museum, you learn by doing. So it's very suitable to visit with children. You can admire beautiful machines. In an engaging way, you get an explanation about the development of industry in this region and in general.
Fisheries Museum Breskens
Fisheries Museum Breskens tells the story of the lives of fishermen at sea. You can see old fishing boats and a large collection of birds, shells, and corals. There is also a large sea aquarium. The museum also organizes workshops, such as learning how to knit fishing nets. Breskens is building a new museum, the Fish Center in the harbor area. Construction started in March 2025. The Fish Center will include the fisheries museum, the KNRM, and hospitality facilities.
Contemporary and Modern Art
Artists feel at home in Zeeland and Zeeuws-Vlaanderen. The landscape, the sea, and the sky are a source of inspiration. The contrasts between industry and rural surroundings also make our region interesting. You can find contemporary and modern art in many places.
ArtBase Terneuzen
Terneuzen is one of the three pilot locations for ArtBase: a project to develop an art platform without walls for contemporary art. This platform will meet the needs of the region and focus on Zeeland artists with international influences.
ArtBase Terneuzen is committed to a lasting facility for contemporary Zeeland art. Together with the other partners in this pilot, the Stedelijk Museum Schiedam and SCHUNCK Heerlen, ArtBase Terneuzen is developing an approach to strengthen contemporary art. ArtBase will conduct research into the location for the art platform, the art, and the community. The town hall of Terneuzen, along with other locations, will be used for pilot programs such as exhibitions and presentations. ArtBase wants to collaborate with other cultural institutions in the region and Belgium. By the end of 2027, it will be clear whether this pilot has succeeded and whether it can be continued nationwide. The Province of Zeeland and the Mondriaan Fund support this pilot.
Nesse
Nesse is Terneuzen's cultural incubator for the production, development, and presentation of contemporary art and design. Located in the former Philips factory, Nesse offers workspaces and an international residency program for artists and designers. Watch the opening in the following video.
Hulst Art
At Hulst Art you will find contemporary art. Check the website for exhibitions.
Verbeke Foundation
The Verbeke Foundation is a museum for modern and contemporary art. Just across the border in Belgium, in Kemzeke, you will find the Verbeke Foundation. A private museum of art collectors Geert Verbeke and Carla Verbeke-Lens. Culture, nature, and ecology come together here. The space houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art and, as a haven for the arts, also offers opportunities for young artists.
