The Cornelius Chapel in Mullem was first mentioned in a document dated August 16, 1424. The Maasheggen and several walking and cycling routes also shape travel plans in Vortum Mullem. This makes it possible to distinguish between two interests: local history centered on Cornelius, and routes on foot or by bicycle. When planning, consider whether cultural history or the landscape of the Maasheggen area should take up more of your time.

Cornelius history in Mullem and Vortum Mullem

For centuries, Mullem was a pilgrimage site for Sinte Knillis. People prayed there for protection from cramps, paralysis, and nervous disorders, and for the good health of calves. The new parish church in Vortum-Mullem was consecrated on February 14, 1953, and dedicated to Saint Cornelius. It contains an oak statue of the saint dating from around 1500. On June 10, 2017, St. Cornelius Church was deconsecrated—released from sacred use—and converted into MFA Knillus. The history of Cornelius can therefore be explored through several stages: from the chapel and pilgrimage to the repurposing of a church building.

Walking in the Maasheggen

The IVN De Pontipad starts near De Schutkooi on Veerweg, where the road enters the Maasheggen area. The 7.7 km “De Maasheggen op z’n mooist” walking route starts at De Schutkooi, Veerweg 3, between cycling junctions 23 and 28. It crosses wind-blown sand dunes known as the Bergjes and follows a finely divided mosaic of Maasheggen hedges in a floodplain. The hedges there are maintained. In and around the Vortumse Bergjes, more than 40 different bird species breed in the Maasheggen hedges and in the woods on the rises; species counts may change over time. This route focuses not only on its stated length, but also on the landscape: dunes, hedges, and woods on the rises give it a variety of sections.

Cycling along the Roman road and past artworks

The historic Roman road through the Land van Cuijk ran through Vortum-Mullem. There is also a signposted cycling route along the Roman road in the Maasheggen area, following numbered cycling junctions. Sections of the historic route are marked with Roman standards, information boards, and Roman helmets set into the road surface. Another themed option is the Kapellenbaan: you can travel it by bicycle or car, and in the Maasheggen area it passes modern and traditional artworks as well as existing cultural heritage sites. The Roman road cycling route therefore focuses on history, while the Kapellenbaan brings together artworks and cultural heritage as the theme of the route.

Finding your way at De Schutkooi

De Schutkooi is an organic farm in Vortum-Mullem, where agriculture, nature, and care are combined. It also has a hospitality building for recreational cyclists and festive occasions. De Schutkooi is therefore a recurring landmark in the route descriptions: the IVN De Pontipad starts nearby, and the 7.7 km route starts at the address Veerweg 3. Route details may be revised; check the relevant route description before setting out.

Your interests can help determine where to stay: the history of Cornelius offers a cultural focus, while the walking and cycling routes explore different landscapes and themes. When choosing a route, consider its stated length, starting point, and profile.

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