Klundert reveals itself through its visible traces as a fortified town. Where the Bottekreek cuts through the rampart on the north side near Verlaatstraat, there is a yellow brick bridge. The year 1769 is inscribed in the keystone of its arch. The inscription makes the bridge a precise starting point for exploring Klundert’s fortification history.

Ramparts, Water and Fortifications

On Klundert’s north side, large sections of the main rampart, moat and counterscarp with covered way have been restored to their former condition. The Stenen Poppen offer another perspective on the fortifications: they are a brick dam dating from 1583 and part of Klundert’s fortifications. During the Eighty Years’ War against the Spanish, the fortified town was part of the Stelling van Willemstad and thus also the Zuiderwaterlinie. This places the history of the individual structures in the context of a larger line of defence.

Town Hall and Museum

The town hall also offers a glimpse into Klundert’s architectural history. It was built in 1621 in the Renaissance style, based on a design by Melchior van Herbach, thanks to a substantial contribution from Prince Maurits. The details about its design, style and year of construction give the building a distinct place in the town’s historical development.

The Nationaal Vlasserij-Suikermuseum in Klundert is dedicated to life and work in flax cultivation, sugar beet farming and sugar factories. It is housed in a restored estate farm. Two large exhibition rooms are named “Vlasserij” and “Suiker”; these names alone reflect the museum’s themes. The history of work and cultivation thus complements the evidence of ramparts, moats and fortifications with a distinct perspective on life in the region.

On Foot Through Klundert and Beyond

The booklet “Kuieren door Klundert” describes a walking route of around three kilometres through the fortified town. It includes a town map and detailed descriptions of the sights. The approximate distance provides a practical guide for planning; the map and descriptions place the individual destinations along the route through town. Stage 4 of the Zuiderwaterlinie follows a different route: it continues from Klundert to Zevenbergen. This means you can choose between a described route through the fortified town and a walking stage with Zevenbergen as the next destination.

There is a picnic area at the Stenen Poppen, with views of the water and the Poppen. Here, you can combine a stop at one of the fortifications with a break and a view of the water.

Water Landscape and Practical Information

Klundert’s marine clay polders, remains of creeks and waterways are reminders of the centuries-long struggle against the water. This landscape perspective adds another defining context to the history of the fortifications: people’s relationship with water over many centuries.

There is a spacious car park behind the Tourist Information Point at Oosterstraat 20. From there, the Stenen Poppen, the old town hall and the Bottekreek are just a few minutes’ walk away. As parking regulations may change, please check the parking situation before your visit.

The Jewish cemetery on Blauwhoefseweg is associated with Klundert’s Jewish community. The community was disbanded around 1900 because of the small number of Jewish residents. The cemetery and this history offer another distinct way to explore the town’s past.

Discover more destinations: Zevenbergen, Fijnaart, Standdaarbuiten, Oudemolen, Moerdijk, Langeweg, Willemstad

Return to the main travel overview: Moerdijk.