Zeeuws Museum

Frommer's Review

Middelburg's sprawling 13th-century abbey in the center of town had a life of traumatic ups and downs over the centuries, as it went from Catholic to Protestant to secular usages, all the while suffering from fires and careless alterations at the hands of whoever happened to be in charge. What you see today is a replica of the original, reconstructed following World War II bombings. Soaring 87m (289 ft.) into the sky, the 14th-century Lange Jan (Long John) Tower can be seen from any point on the island, and has magnificent panoramic views from its summit.

Another occupant of the abbey is the Zeeuws Museum (Zeeland Museum), which houses a collection of antiquities. Highlights include a Roman altar to pagan sea-goddess Nehallenia recovered from the beach after a storm, a medieval stone coffin that was used for watering cattle, and 16th-century tapestries depicting the victory of Zeeland over the Spanish. National costumes are displayed. The museum is closed for renovations until sometime in 2007.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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