In the center of Made, a star-shaped street plan surrounds the Molenplein (Gaymansplantsoen), where a windmill once stood. The square features the statue “De Molenaar” as well as a fountain, benches and terraces. Locals, children and tourists make use of the square and its amenities. The street layout, Molenplein and former windmill offer a distinctive glimpse of the town’s character.

Local history and remembrance

The “Pools Oorlogsmonument” commemorates Made’s liberation on October 4, 1944, and bears the names of 42 war victims from Made and Drimmelen. It also recalls the 1st Polish Armoured Division’s role in the liberation of the region. The memorial site thus connects a precisely dated historical event with the memory of people from both towns and the military role in the liberation.

The bronze statue “Oos Jans” depicts Johanna van der Steen-van Zwol, who was also known as “Oos Jaas.” For many years, she ran a café and was closely connected to village social life. The carnival figure Oos Jaas also takes its name from her: the enlarged, five-meter-tall figure is a symbol of the Mayenèrs and is carried each year in both the children’s parade and the main carnival parade.

Walking tours and local culture

The Heemkundekring Made-Drimmelen organizes guided walking tours of Made and Drimmelen. Dates may vary. The association also shares knowledge of local history through lectures, excursions and exhibitions. In addition to taking a tour, anyone interested in how the towns have developed can find other ways to explore their history.

The “Wandelen door Made en omgeving” route explores Made on foot. It is 13.5 kilometers long and takes about 3 hours and 23 minutes. This makes it a longer walking option; conditions may change, so check them before setting out. When planning your time, note that the walk is quite different in length from “Top 100 Made Live,” which is also held in Made.

Events and a culinary break

“Top 100 Made Live” is an eleven-hour live rock event featuring six regional cover bands from West and Central Brabant performing 100 rock songs. Dates and lineups change with each edition; check the event details before making plans. The event takes considerably longer than the roughly three-and-a-half-hour walking route, which may influence how you plan your stay.

At Alpaca Break, you can enjoy high tea or an extensive lunch among alpacas and feed the animals. Reservations are recommended; tables can be booked through the website. Made offers a range of options: local history and remembrance, a guided tour or walk, carnival and live rock, and a meal in the company of alpacas.

Discover more destinations: Wagenberg, Terheijden, Drimmelen, Hooge Zwaluwe, Lage Zwaluwe.

Go to the main travel overview: Drimmelen.